First Intergenerational Dialogue and Social Cohesion Center launched in Comrat

According to the Social Cohesion and Reconciliation (SCORE) Index, conducted in 2024 on a sample of 1,684 people (excluding the left bank of the Nistru River), the highest level of trust in Moldova is placed in the family (9.4), while generalized social trust remains low. This highlights strong cohesion within close circles, but fragility at a broader societal level. Additionally, feelings of social marginalization are reported based on age, ethnicity, disability, education level, and other factors. In this context, the opening of a Community Center for intergenerational dialogue is an important step toward a more united and inclusive society.

Present at the opening, the Minister of Labour and Social Protection of the Republic of Moldova, Alexei Buzu, stated: "Reconnecting generations is a real necessity in a society affected by population ageing, migration, social divisions, and economic challenges. Through this Center, we are not only promoting dialogue and empathy but also investing in building a more united and resilient society. We hope that the example set in Comrat will inspire other communities as well. Moldova in Dialogue means a more united country.”

According to a study conducted as part of the “Joint Initiative to Foster Social Cohesion in Moldova through Dialogue and Community Engagement”, both older and younger people have misconceptions about one another, contributing to social distance. For instance, older adults often perceive young people as disrespectful and overly focused on digital technologies, while youth may see older people as rigid, conservative, and nostalgic for the past.

Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in Moldova, emphasized: "Each stage of life comes with its own needs and characteristics. Only through open and genuine dialogue can we overcome stereotypes and negative perceptions, building real bridges between generations. Older people are grandparents, youth are grandchildren; both are part of the families that form the foundation of Moldovan society. With this dialogue platform created through the new Center, we aim to strengthen societal unity and promote understanding and empathy—between generations, communities, and regions alike.”

Guido Beltrani, Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Moldova, reiterated Switzerland’s commitment to social cohesion: "Switzerland supports initiatives that reduce social fragmentation and offer everyone the opportunity to actively participate in community life. Both young and older people have valuable ideas, experiences, and perspectives to share. Starting today, through this Center, they have a real platform for dialogue—a safe space where all voices are heard and respected.”

To support the Center’s operations and equipment, Moldcell Foundation donated IT equipment and computers, reaffirming its commitment to this social service. The Center provides an open space for workshops, dialogue sessions, and joint initiatives between young and older people.

The Intergenerational Community Center in Comrat is the first of its kind in the country and is part of a broader initiative being implemented in 10 localities across Moldova, including in the Gagauzia region and the left bank of the Nistru River. The initiative promotes a tested model of intergenerational dialogue based on a Swiss methodology that fosters cohesion through dialogue, empathetic listening, and joint problem-solving.

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The Center’s opening was made possible with financial support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), as part of a joint effort led by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, HelpAge Moldova, the Moldcell Foundation, and the Municipality of Comrat.