United Nations in Moldova

In September 2015, the Republic of Moldova, alongside with 192 Member States of the United Nations committed to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future having at its heart the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The National Development Strategy "European Moldova 2030" (NDS) as well as the Government Action Plan ”Building a European Moldova” describe the short, medium and long-term strategic development vision of the country synchronizing the priorities, objectives, indicators and targets of international commitments taken by the Republic of Moldova, including the ones set in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to the national context. The Sustainable Development Goals are being monitored and evaluated by the United Nations Country Team through the Country Results Reports developed in coordination with the Government. As of 2022, the Government has committed to monitor and report annually on the level of achievement of the SDGs in the country which allows the state to make necessary interventions to adjust and/or accelerate the pace of SDGs implementation.

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Publication

18 September 2025

Report of the Secretary-General on the Work of the Organization 2025

The present report looks back on a year of headwinds and hope for humanity. In 2024, deadly conflicts continued to inflict massive suffering and displacement. Our planet shattered new heat records. Poverty, hunger and inequalities rose, while transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence expanded without effective guardrails, and international law and human rights were trampled. In the face of such challenges, the United Nations worked to translate our shared values into meaningful action on the ground for people around the world. In 2024, through 40 special political missions and offices and 11 peacekeeping operations, we worked to prevent the outbreak, escalation and continuation of conflicts. Together with partners, we delivered life-saving assistance and protection to more than 116 million people. In countries and areas that are enduring conflicts, such as the Horn of Africa, the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, the Sudan, Ukraine, Yemen and beyond, we delivered food, nutrition, water, sanitation, education, healthcare, shelter and protection. We responded to disasters, including floods in South-East Asia and the Sudan, Hurricane Beryl in the Caribbean, an earthquake in Vanuatu and drought in Southern and Eastern Africa.

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Publication

19 September 2025

Progress on the Sustainable Development Goals: The gender snapshot 2025

The “Gender snapshot 2025” sounds the alarm: if current trends continue, the world will reach 2030 with 351 million women and girls still living in extreme poverty, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5—to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls—missed. This is not inevitable: it would be a political outcome, shaped by systemic neglect, stalled investments, and a retreat from equality.But the data also make clear that a different path is still possible. If we chose to invest even in just one concrete action on closing the gender digital divide, 343.5 million women and girls globally could benefit, lifting 30 million women and girls out of poverty and generating a USD 1.5 trillion windfall in global GDP by 2030.Produced by UN Women and UN DESA, the “Gender snapshot” is the world’s leading source of data on gender equality and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Drawing from more than 100 data sources, it tracks progress on gender equality across all 17 SDGs. With five years to go, and thirty since the Beijing Platform for Action, the report offers both a warning and a way forward. It also anchors the Beijing+30 Action Agenda, identifying six priority areas for accelerated delivery, including two with costed investment pathways on digital inclusion and freedom from poverty.In a moment shaped by both resistance and resolve, this edition affirms a simple truth: gender equality is not an ideology; it is foundational to peace, development, and human rights.Additional documentsPublication (PDF, 1.4MB)References and notes (PDF, 255KB)Technical note (262KB)Data sheets (Excel, 1.7MB)Gender snapshot online

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Publication

08 August 2025

Case Study: Child Road Safety in the Republic of Moldova

According to the most recent data published by UNICEF, road traffic accidents remain one of the leading causes of death among children and adolescents worldwide. Nearly 220,000 young people aged 0 to 19 lose their lives each year due to road collisions — the equivalent of over 600 deaths every day.In the Republic of Moldova, the scale of the problem is particularly severe. Each year, road accidents cause approximately 25 deaths and over 100 serious injuries among children and adolescents. The country records one death for every 10 accidents — more than four times higher than the European Union average, where the ratio is one death per 45 accidents.For many children in Moldova, the daily journey to and from school involves significant risks. Students in both urban and rural areas face numerous risk factors, such as excessive traffic speed near educational institutions, lack of pedestrian infrastructure (sidewalks, crosswalks), and low awareness of road safety rules — among both drivers and pedestrians.UNICEF firmly supports every child's right to grow up in a safe, healthy, and protected environment. From 2023 to 2025, in partnership with the Automobile Club of Moldova, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), and the FIA Foundation, UNICEF is implementing the “Safe Journeys to School” initiative.The project focused on assessing road infrastructure in three towns — Edineț, Ialoveni, and Șoldănești — and upgrading 18 high-risk school zones. Implemented measures include more visible road markings, appropriate traffic signage, installation of traffic calming devices, and the introduction of a 30 km/h speed limit within school zones — a crucial intervention for accident prevention.The approach has been integrated, combining infrastructure improvements with education, community engagement, and advocacy for public policies focused on child traffic safety.Key results of the initiative:A 95% increase in the number of drivers yielding to pedestrians;Over 110,000 children reached through road safety education and awareness activities;Approval and integration of road safety education into the formal education curriculum by the Ministry of Education.Please refer to the attached case study for more details.

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19 December 2025

Ludmila Iachim’s fight for equality in Moldova: “Change begins with us”

Ludmila Iachim is the Executive Director of the MOTIVAȚIE Association in Moldova and a leading advocate for the rights, dignity and inclusion of people with disabilities. Living with a disability since adolescence, she has transformed her personal experience into a lifelong mission to expand opportunities, strengthen leadership and challenge stigma, especially for women and girls with disabilities. Under her guidance, MOTIVAȚIE has grown into a national movement advancing accessibility, inclusive employment and community-based support. Through collaborations with UN Women under the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence ” programme, she has helped equip women and girls with disabilities across Moldova with knowledge, confidence and tools to exercise their rights and prevent gender-based violence. “My own fulfilling life motivates me to inspire other women and girls with disabilities to strive for more, to invest in themselves and to help transform our society into a safer, more accessible, and more inclusive place for everyone. Change begins with us.” – Ludmila IachimAdvocacy for women and girls with disabilities is deeply personal for Iachim. Living with a disability since the age of 13, she has transformed her lived experience into a mission: to fight for the rights, dignity and opportunities of people with disabilities.“My personal experience has been the driving force,” she said. “It taught me to stand up for my rights and those of others and became a source of inspiration for many people with disabilities who need support and guidance. Disability itself is not the challenge, but society’s lack of awareness about our rights and needs.” – Ludmila IachimFounded in 2002 by people with disabilities and volunteers, the MOTIVAȚIE Association set out to transform lives in Moldova. What began as a grassroots initiative has grown into a recognized movement that creates innovative services, strengthens leadership capacities, and trains community advocates. Through the “EU 4 Gender Equality” programme in partnership with UN Women, MOTIVAȚIE has reached women and girls with disabilities across six regions of Moldova who have taken part in training sessions on their rights and on preventing gender-based violence.“Women and girls with disabilities face an even higher risk of abuse and violence,” Iachim noted. “That is why our training covers healthy relationships, consent, and where to turn for help. They gained the knowledge and tools to challenge stigma, discrimination, gender stereotypes, and violence,” she explained.As a disability rights leader, Iachim has seen firsthand the stigma faced by women and girls with disabilities.“Too often, we are viewed through a lens of pity - seen as dependent, incapable, and in constant need of assistance. Women with disabilities who raise their voices and lead in their communities are powerful agents of change. Gender equality and social inclusion go hand-in-hand - they strengthen diversity, promote acceptance, and transform societies”, said Ludmila Iachim.Iachim's vision for the next decade is of a Moldova where women and girls with disabilities live in dignity, with access to quality services, healthcare, and equal opportunities in every sphere of life. This vision also includes a society free from violence, where women and girls with disabilities are protected, empowered and supported.“The fight for the rights of people with disabilities is ongoing. Authorities must recognize that inclusion is not a luxury or a favour; it is a fundamental right. While progress has been slow, we can see real results and a gradual shift in society’s mindset”, stated Ludmila Iachim.This story is part of “She Changes the Norms” campaign, produced in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence” programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, and implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA. This article was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of UN Women and UNFPA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

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Story

18 December 2025

Rehabilitation and support for Ukrainian refugees in the Republic of Moldova

“In Moldova, we found peace, we found tranquility and a welcoming home. There are no bombs falling. It is quiet. I feel fulfilled. I want to build a future in Moldova. Here, at the hardest moment of our lives, we have found everything we need: love, warmth and care,” says Alina Rodina.Alina left the Kharkiv region with her son Daniil and daughter, Milana, shortly after the war in Ukraine began. They lived in a refugee center before finding accommodation as a family in the Drochia district in the Republic of Moldova. Daniil, the youngest at age 7, was born with neurological problems that made it hard for him to understand and integrate.The family struggled to know how to support Daniil and meet his needs, before they took him to the Republican Rehabilitation Center for Children in the municipality of Chisinau. There he was provided with physical, psycho-verbal and rehabilitation services - a holistic approach that worked both with Daniil’s special needs and with his family.The connection was made possible through the WHO Country Office in the Republic of Moldova, which coordinates the UN intersectoral working group on health and nutrition.Achieving results"We were happy to meet Daniil and his family. But we were even happier to be able to help him regain the skills to eat alone, use cutlery, brush his teeth and show his beautiful emotions to those at home," says Ecaterina Gincota, head of the Republican Rehabilitation Center for Children.After establishing a diagnosis, psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, educational psychologists and speech therapists worked with Daniil step by step, encouraging him, giving him space to express himself, to make mistakes, to try again. Following this approach, results were not long in coming. Work was also done with the family, offering clear ways to manage Daniil’s behavioral crises and establish a daily activity schedule. Daniil also caught up with the routine childhood vaccinations that he was missing."Things have changed a lot for the better since our first meeting with Daniil. The whole family understands him better now and he is more receptive and happier," reports Tatiana Cebanica, educational psychologist, and head of the Psycho-Verbal Rehabilitation and Social Assistance Section, Republican Rehabilitation Center for Children.Parents and specialists at the Center joined forces to help empower Daniil. The family decided that he would be monitored remotely by specialists, benefiting from the most modern and effective techniques. Now, he can maintain his attention for several minutes on an object or an activity and do many things on his own.Seen and heardThanks to the efforts of the specialists, supported by the WHO through the provision of state-of-the-art equipment and training, Daniil is now seen differently, not only by his own parents, but also by the community. He is a confident, curious child, capable of learning and being part of society. For Daniil and his family, the Rehabilitation Center was the place where they were encouraged to fight for a different future. “Every child deserves to be seen and heard, and to develop at their own pace, with all the support they need”, stressed Dr Miljana Grbic, WHO Representative in the Republic of Moldova.Daniil's family received vital assistance from the WHO Moldova team, thanks to the support of the government of Austria and the European Union, which contributes to strengthening rehabilitation and social support services in the Republic of Moldova.

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Story

18 December 2025

You truly become a father when you learn to give love

"Anyone can be a father, but only a truly dedicated dad becomes a real daddy." This is how Liviu Tverdostup, a father from the IPLT Waldorf Fathers' Club community, begins his story – a happy and grateful dad to his two daughters, aged 5 and 7, with whom he learns every day to explore the world from new perspectives.For him, being a father is both a responsibility and a gift, a gift that comes the moment you stop seeking love and start giving it. He has realized this in simple moments: in the mornings when his daughters take his hand, in their bursts of laughter over the smallest things, and in the spontaneous way they teach him to live with enthusiasm, curiosity, and passion.Among their favorite activities are exploring nature and bonding with animals. At home, they have a true “extended family”: three dogs, a cat, a chameleon, a parrot, a turtle, a donkey, a foal, a little donkey, and a mare. The girls know each one’s name, their routines, and share a special bond with all of them.Through caring for the animals, he shows his daughters what responsibility, empathy, and gentleness truly mean. He explains everything in simple words they can understand, turning every moment into a life lesson."Being a father has taught me that the only real way to educate is by setting an example," he says. And his daughters learn not from what they hear, but from what they see from his patience, and from the way he gives time, presence, and a sense of security.He learned about the Fathers' Club by chance, through a Viber group. What caught his attention was the idea that a father’s presence has a decisive impact on a child’s personality and he decided to join.He discovered a space where fathers learn from each other, where vulnerability is not weakness but courage. The most valuable lesson he has taken from this experience is the importance of mental flexibility regarding gender roles.“In a family, a man and a woman are not in competition, they are a team. A family built on partnership and equality is the only formula for a happy couple and emotionally healthy children.”Participating in the Fathers’ Club has helped him realize just how precious a father’s involvement in a child’s upbringing is.“Only by educating myself can I educate my daughters,” he says sincerely.In their quiet evenings, after the day has settled, the girls sit with their father to share the story of their day. Sometimes they speak one at a time, other times over each other’s words, with the enthusiasm of children who know they are truly being heard. He lets them say everything that’s on their hearts. These are simple moments, yet within them gathers all their strength to keep moving forward.Sometimes, one of the girls leans on his shoulder, takes his hand, or hugs him unexpectedly. These gestures remind him of her, the same gentleness, the same calm, the same warmth. In these moments, he realizes how much their mother lives on through them: in the way they show affection, in the delicacy of their touches, in how they seek closeness when someone needs it. And perhaps that is why, no matter how hard some days can be, they never truly feel alone. Their mother’s love remains there, discreet and natural, in their everyday life - in their laughter, in their gestures, and in the way they find strength to support each other.This is how their journey continues: a father and his two daughters learning together to be strong in their own way - through good days and hard days, moments of fear and bursts of joy that keep all three of them standing. They grow through each other and for each other.And even though life has placed them in a situation where they rely only on the three of them, they are never truly just three. Their mother is present in everything they do: in the way the girls give hugs for no reason, in the silences they share together, in the courage that emerges exactly when it’s needed. She lives in their small gestures, in the way their father strokes their foreheads, and in every step they take successfully together.Perhaps this is their strongest truth: her love has never left them. It keeps them close. It nurtures them. It supports them. It lights their path with a gentleness that is unseen, but deeply felt.Although these experiences preceded his participation in the Fathers’ Club, the program provided a safe and supportive space to share them, dedicated to the active involvement of fathers in their children’s lives. For this father, the Fathers’ Club has been a support group that offered him encouragement, confidence, and the confirmation that being a dad means, above all, being present in his children’s lives.The Fathers’ Club is a project developed under the regional program “EU4Gender Equality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence,” funded by the European Union and implemented by UNFPA Moldova and UN Women Moldova, with the support of the Child Rights Information Center.

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Story

15 December 2025

The Light That Brings Hope to Myroslav’s Face 

With support from the European Union, UNICEF, and AVE Copiii, refugee children and children from host communities receive protection, services, and the chance to growThe morning always begins with the smell of tea and the sound of a mother's footsteps in the house where they have found peace. Yelyzaveta slowly lifts the blinds, and light touches the face of her seven-year-old son, Myroslav. The boy opens his eyes and smiles.   “He loves the light. I tell him the sun is coming to say hello”, the mother says. They arrived in Taraclia, Republic of Moldova, in March 2024, after fleeing Izmail in the Odesa region.“We had one suitcase, a stroller, and 200 dollars. Back then, I used to say that wherever our suitcase was, that was our home”, Yelyzaveta recalls. The journey was long, but starting a new life was even harder. “We didn’t know anyone. I cried a lot during the first months. Everything felt strange”. Myroslav was born with cerebral palsy. In Ukraine, he attended rehabilitation sessions regularly, and his mother did everything possible to continue his treatment after arriving in Moldova. With support from AVE Copiii, through UNICEF and the European Union, the family received material assistance for the child’s care, winter clothing, and, most importantly, continuous counselling and guidance to access local social and educational services.  “When I told them he couldn’t write with his hands, the people from AVE Copiii bought him a special board so he could learn letters and numbers. It was such a joy”, Yelyzaveta says.   Teachers visit their home several times a week, and the boy is gradually learning to recognize letters and colors. “Myroslav’s case was taken over by the AVE Copiii team in March 2024, and the support provided with the help of the European Union has gradually transformed the family’s life. We began with emergency assistance, then helped the mother access the Family Support Service and a financial allowance that provided stability during the first months. The child received winter clothing and footwear last year, and the support will continue this year as well. Over time, Myroslav was included in educational and therapeutic services, received an adapted learning board, and a school-supply voucher. Today, he is visibly progressing, and his mother feels she is no longer alone on this journey”, explains Elena Codreanu, social worker at AVE Copiii. The project that supported Myroslav and his mother is part of a joint effort by the European Union and UNICEF to strengthen Moldova’s child protection system. Through AVE Copiii, the project helps refugee and local children in difficult situations receive rapid, tailored support. The initiative strengthens case-management and referral mechanisms, provides training for specialists, and ensures children’s access to safe, inclusive, and child-friendly services. This way, every child has the chance to grow protected, heard, and supported, regardless of the challenges they face.  Thousands of Children Supported in MoldovaMyroslav’s story is one of the child-protection case-management interventions carried out by AVE Copiii with support from UNICEF and the European Union. Between 2024 and 2025, case-management interventions supported 4,977 refugee children, including 99 children with disabilities. These results demonstrate the scale of the efforts made and the commitment to reaching every child who needs protection, guidance, and access to adapted services. “Yelyzaveta’s and Myroslav’s story shows us the importance of reaching the most vulnerable children and ensuring their access to humanitarian assistance and social services tailored to their needs. Thanks to the support of the European Union, UNICEF has been able to invest in a stronger child protection system through partnerships with civil society organizations and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, who work hand in hand to support children and their families”, says Flore Rossi, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF. In the meantime, with the help of local specialists, the family received financial support and access to the mobile team providing therapeutic assistance for children with disabilities. In September 2025, Myroslav received a new school-supply voucher, and in December he will begin a rehabilitation period at the sanatorium in Comrat.  “Every small step is a victory. Now he can sit more steadily, hold himself better. He has made great progress in learning. I’m teaching him not to depend only on me”, the mother says with determination in her eyes.  Although winter is approaching and firewood is expensive, Yelyzaveta always finds reasons to be grateful. Neighbours help her, and partner organizations look for solutions whenever the family is in need.   “Everything came together piece by piece. A crib, a mattress, a board. And from all of that, I built a small corner of peaceful life for my child”.  A Simple Wish for the Future When asked what she wishes for the future, Yelyzaveta pauses, then says softly: “For him to stand up and walk. That’s all. And to always smile when he sees the light”. Today, Myroslav continues to learn, laugh, and grow thanks to a child protection system that gives him the chance to experience a safe childhood beyond borders. 

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11 December 2025

UNICEF and Germany improve safe water and sanitation conditions in schools

Schools in Moldova are benefiting from interventions that modernize water installations, electrical systems, ventilation, and sanitation blocks. The new water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities are designed to meet high standards of cleanliness and safety, creating healthy spaces for students. These improvements are made possible through the Strengthening the National Social Services and Systems for Vulnerable Children and Refugees in the Republic of Moldova Project, implemented by UNICEF with the financial support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), through the German Development Bank (KfW). The intervention aims to modernize infrastructure in schools across the country. In many of them access to safe water, functional sanitation facilities, and clean spaces remains a daily challenge. The situation is more severe in rural communities, where 70 percent of schools do not have indoor sanitation facilities, and every second institution lacks a wastewater collection and treatment system. For the investments remain durable and functional in the long term, representatives of educational institutions learned how to operate and maintain these systems during the workshop “Efficient Management of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Facilities in Schools” organized within the above mentioned project. Voices from the schoolsSchool representatives emphasized the direct impact of the new facilities on students’ health, motivation and participation.“In a clean environment, children think freely and express themselves with confidence”.
Mihaela Zagornean, biology and chemistry teacher, “Grigore Vieru” Gymnasium, Ialoveni For teachers, school conditions directly influence how students learn and behave. “In a clean and well-organized environment, children can think freely and express themselves with confidence”, says teacher Mihaela Zagornean.She highlights that hygiene is the foundation of health and that modernized infrastructure helps students understand the importance of hygiene rules. “We can create a clean and safe space together only if students have the necessary conditions and if we, adults, offer them guidance and a good example”. “Today’s children can no longer learn in the conditions from 30 years ago”.
Nicolae Lungu, principal, Ustia Gymnasium, Dubăsari Principal Nicolae Lungu speaks about the reality in many villages: students are still in a situation where they have to use old outdoor sanitation facilities.“These conditions create psychological discomfort and can affect the learning process”, he says.In his view, the changes brought by the project are essential for today’s generations. “Children are taught to wash their hands before meals or take part in activities that require hygiene. Modern infrastructure is no longer a luxury but a necessity”.For him, this workshop provided practical tools: “The daily, weekly, and quarterly checklists will help us maintain the sanitation blocks in good condition and properly plan maintenance budgets”. “When facilities are inadequate, students do not want to come to school”.
Irina Tașoglo, accountant, “Mihai Eminescu” Gymnasium, Ceadîr-Lunga, ATU Gagauzia Irina Tașoglo stresses that students’ well-being depends directly on the conditions they find at school.“If they do not have a place to wash their hands or if the sanitary facilities are not equipped, they face difficulties and do not want to come”.She explains that teachers and principals can guide students to understand the importance of hygiene, especially when school infrastructure allows these practices to be applied: “Students need not only rules but also examples”. “We cannot talk about education if children’s basic needs are not met”.
Natalia Cereșnea, principal, Peticeni Gymnasium, Călărași For many institutions, access to modern sanitation blocks represents a historic change.“Until now, we only had outdoor toilets. Children accustomed to modern facilities at home often felt uneasy at school”, says principal Natalia Cereșnea. She notes that access to indoor sanitation influences not only health, but also learning time, motivation, and students’ emotional well-being. “Based on Maslow’s pyramid, if we do not meet physiological needs, we cannot talk about development, concentration, or performance”.As a school leader, Natalia takes responsibility for educating, monitoring, and guiding students to use the new facilities properly and responsibly. “Change comes with adaptation, but students respond positively when they receive guidance”. A big step for Moldova’s childrenA modernized school infrastructure contributes to a safe and healthy educational environment that directly influences students’ participation and the quality of the learning process. Proper water, hygiene, and sanitation conditions support children’s motivation and offer them a stronger foundation for learning and development.Thanks to the support of the German Government through KfW, schools are undergoing real transformation. Children across the country will have access to safe water, modern sanitation facilities, and secure conditions, while teachers will have the necessary tools to maintain them long term. This is an investment in health, in education, and in the future of every child in Moldova.

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Press Release

29 December 2025

Safety for students: School transport to be monitored through a digital platform, purchased with the support of the European Union

“This modern solution enables real-time monitoring of school buses, tracking fuel consumption, automation of route sheets, and route optimization. The system helps improve student safety and ensures public resources are used more efficient,” says Ana Moraru, Project Manager at UNDP Moldova. “This initiative is part of the Ministry of Education and Research’s ongoing efforts to improve student safety and modernize educational infrastructure. The GPS devices were installed between August and September, and training the people responsible for school transport will help us make the most of this new resource”, explains Sergiu Coceaș, Senior Consultant at the Ministry of Education and Research. So far 500 GPS devices have been purchased for school buses managed by regional and municipal Education, Youth, and Sports Departments as well as by schools themselves. All school buses purchased in the future will also be equipped with GPS tracking.Earlier, under the “Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All” project – implemented by UNDP and UNICEF with EU support – 10 school buses were distributed to schools across the country. The total value of the investment exceeds €635,000. Each of the new school buses has 14 seats, including two adapted for wheelchair users, and is equipped with an access ramp. The vehicles feature stability control systems, surveillance cameras, air conditioning, automatic steps, first aid kits, and fire extinguishers.The national school bus fleet currently provides daily transport for approximately 15,000 students from towns and villages to schools and other educational activities. The “Advancing Quality Education and Lifelong Learning Opportunities for All” project has a total budget of €10 million and is being implemented between 2024 and 2027. Of the total number of 90 future model schools, 10 are receiving support from the EU and UNDP. In these schools, physics, chemistry and biology laboratories are being renovated, and teachers and managers are participating in training courses to strengthen their professional skills. Another objective of the project is to strengthen links between schools and the labour market. To this end, several career guidance activities will be organized to help students prepare for choosing their future professions. At the same time, the European Union and UNDP will support the development and testing of a national digital skills programme for adults.

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Press Release

22 December 2025

Over 80 young people from four localities learned to manage conflicts through dialogue and mediation

Participants aged 17 to 33 learned about the stages of the mediation process, as well as the role of the mediator as a facilitator of constructive dialogue. Practical exercises offered them the opportunity to reflect on how these tools can be adapted to their local contexts.The training placed a strong emphasis on developing communication skills, including active listening, emotion labeling and message reframing, tailored to specific contexts. Through case studies, participants applied these techniques in simulated conflict situations, followed by reflection sessions and analysis of their experiences.Participants also examined different types of conflicts, sources of power and levels of conflict escalation, as well as the impact of stereotypes and cultural differences on dialogue.“This experience was a combination of learning and self-discovery. Practice was the key element of our experience, through the prepared case studies and mediation process simulations. We had the opportunity to organize mediation processes in which all blockages, questions and objections were discussed and clarified in real time. This helped us better understand the dynamics and logic of mediation. At the same time, we realized how important flexibility is in the role of a mediator: although there is a general framework for the mediation process, each case is unique and requires an adapted approach,” said Silvia Gherciu Cucu from Orhei, 17 years.“The sessions were very interesting. I am very glad that I was able to participate, because I believe that social cohesion is very important for peaceful and sustainable development and that what I learned will allow me to bring positive changes to my community so that we can move forward together,” said Dorofei Topală from Basarabeasca, 18 years.Through such training, UNDP and the Government of Switzerland contribute to building a network of young people motivated to support conflict prevention and to strengthen trust-based and cooperative relationships in their communities.The seminars were organized within the “Enhancing social cohesion in Moldova through dialogue and community empowerment” project, funded by Switzerland and implemented by UNDP and UNFPA.

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Press Release

19 December 2025

Recent crises have revived gender bias: stereotypes about women’s role in society increased by over 14% in 2025

These key findings are highlighted in the report ”Representation, power, and gender inequalities in the 2025 parliamentary elections”, produced by CPD with the support of UNDP Moldova, in partnership with UN Women Moldova and funded by Norway, Canada, Sweden, and Denmark. The study examines how social attitudes and stereotypes shape women’s real opportunities to access elective office and be accepted by voters as legitimate leaders.Key findings:Local and global crises (energy crisis, pandemic, security crises, and inflation) have been collectively associated with political leaders in office, many of whom are women, disproportionately affecting perceptions of women’s competence.Voters continue to favor a conservative profile. A legitimate parliamentarian is perceived as a man (22.3% vs. 6.1% for women), religious (53.6%), married (44.2%), and with children (47.9%).A concerning trend is the increase of gender stereotypes among young people aged 18-29, rising from 27.6% in 2021 to 37.6% in 2025.Rising hate speech and sexist attacks in media and on social networks discourage active women’s participation in politics.The report emphasizes that these perceptions reduce women’s real chances of accessing elective positions. Preferences for the positions of president (31.7% men vs. 3.3% women) or Member of Parliament (23.2% men vs. 3.2% women) demonstrate that the electorate continues to “reserve” women for roles perceived as closer to family and community.Based on these realities, the report proposes five main directions to address these systemic imbalances:Strengthening the dual quota system – to ensure a shift from numerical representation to meaningful and influential participation of women on candidate lists.Challenging stereotypes – removing attitudinal barriers that undermine equal participation through information campaigns and education.Supporting women in public office – measures aimed at reducing resource gaps and creating a conducive environment for women leaders to thrive.Holding political parties accountable – rigorous integration of gender equality in internal policies and public commitment to clear objectives.Increasing visibility in the media – ensuring balanced and non-discriminatory coverage of women’s role in politics throughout the campaign.This product was developed within the project “Strengthening democratic resilience in Moldova,” implemented by UNDP Moldova in partnership with UN Women Moldova, and funded by Norway, Canada, Sweden, and Denmark.

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Press Release

08 December 2025

The first resource in the Republic of Moldova dedicated to preventing digital violence against women and girls has been launched – www.eviolenta.md

The new platform offers a safe, user-friendly, and accessible space designed to equip women and girls with concrete tools to recognize, report, and protect themselves against digital abuse. It is directly connected to the Women and Girls Trust Line 0 8008 8008 and to an online counseling chat, where professional counselors provide support and information in a safe and confidential environment.Viorica Țîmbalari, General Director of the National Agency for Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, emphasized the importance of prevention through information and awareness-raising among women and girls — both about digital violence, a rapidly growing form of abuse amplified by the widespread use of the internet and social media, and about other forms of violence. She also highlighted the need for the entire society to be actively involved in recognizing, preventing, and combating this phenomenon.“The launch of the online service eviolenta.md is a necessary and significant step that strengthens our efforts to ensure that women and girls have access to clear and accessible information on recognizing abuse, the support services available, and existing protection mechanisms. We aim for this resource to be gradually expanded and further developed so that it becomes a safe point of reference — one that centralizes information and actively contributes to informing and raising awareness across society, because preventing violence is a shared responsibility. The commitments we have made require us to act proactively and firmly move from legislation to implementation, and the role of the Agency is to ensure coordination of this process at the national level so that public policies translate into real protection for every woman,” stated Viorica Țîmbalari.Elena Botezatu, Executive Director of the International Center “La Strada”, noted that data from a national survey conducted in 2025 show that every third person in the Republic of Moldova has been a victim or witness of a case of digital violence committed against women. As a result of such situations, one in three women experienced mental or emotional harm or felt ashamed, and in every tenth case, their family life or personal relationships were affected. Additionally, 1 in 50 affected women had to change their workplace or suffered physical harm.“Digital violence is real, digital violence is serious, and today we are here to offer solutions and confidence to women. National data from the Women and Girls Trust Line 0 8008 8008 confirm the scale of this phenomenon. This year alone, we have received more than 2,300 calls, marking a 40 percent increase in cases of violence committed against women — and nearly every third case was facilitated by the use of information and communication technologies. Through the launch of www.eviolenta.md, we aim to make the digital space a safer environment for women and girls in the Republic of Moldova,” emphasized Elena Botezatu.Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in Moldova, stated: “For UNFPA, our commitment remains unwavering: every woman and girl must be able to live free from violence — in every space. The specialized platform eviolenta.md will become part of an integrated national system for preventing all forms of gender-based violence, placing online safety as an essential component of protection. UNFPA, as the technical partner, and the Government of the United Kingdom, which provided the essential financial support, are honored to support the authorities of the Republic of Moldova and civil society in achieving this crucial progress for women and girls in the country.”Fern Horine, the United Kingdom’s Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, stated: “The Government of the United Kingdom is very proud to have financially supported the development of the eviolenta.md platform through our long-standing partnership with UNFPA. The launch of this digital service marks another important step in our ongoing commitment to ‘breaking the cycle’ of violence against women and girls. The online resource will provide support and empowerment to survivors, ensuring that no one is left alone. High-quality, nationwide protection systems are not built overnight. The steady collaboration we see here in Moldova among all partners, the private sector, and civil society is truly remarkable.”Natalia Plugaru, Minister of Labour and Social Protection, mentioned: “I am very pleased to see this platform launched and fully functional. It is an extremely necessary tool for reporting, as victims of violence often do not have the opportunity to make a phone call. I thank our partners who made the launch of this platform possible — especially needed in the context of the increasing cases of digital violence. No woman should have to endure violence, and everyone must be safe both online and offline.”Daniella Misail-Nichitin, Minister of Internal Affairs, who attended the event, presented the institutional response to digital violence and explained the new legal tools that will come into effect in February 2026. These measures strengthen the state’s capacity to intervene quickly in cases of digital violence and provide authorities with clear mechanisms to protect victims. “Online violence is a complex phenomenon, and the first 24 hours are crucial. The new provisions allow us to quickly remove or block abusive content to prevent its spread. But we need people to report it — silence has serious consequences, and shame belongs to the perpetrators, not the victims,” said Minister Misail-Nichitin.Nicoleta Colomeeț, Director of the Agency for Electronic Governance, stated: “I know what digital violence means not just from what I’ve heard — I have experienced it personally, and I know how it feels and how important it is to have timely access to information and support. We are glad to have such a useful resource and welcome the development of digital solutions. The Agency will work with ANPCV, La Strada, UNFPA, as well as other institutions such as the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Internal Affairs to support the interconnection of systems so that data can flow proactively between institutions and platforms through the MConnect interoperability platform. At the same time, we will launch a call for contributions for a dedicated life event, which will be published on the integrated EVO portal next year, where all information needed by those in difficulty will be centralized.”Globally, 85% of women report having witnessed a case of digital violence directed at another woman, yet only 1 in 4 actually report the abuse they experience online. Additionally, 78% of women are unaware of the options available to report harmful behavior in digital spaces.Online harassment, digital blackmail, unauthorized access to data, sharing intimate images without consent, or online stalking are not just virtual incidents — they are real forms of violence against women, with emotional, psychological, and social consequences.In the first ten months of this year, “La Strada” assisted with 67 cases of digital violence, including 19 cases against girls, 1 case against a boy, 40 cases against women, and 7 cases against men. These cases involved:Online harassment through the publication of defamatory messages;Distribution of defamatory messages about a person via fake accounts;Recording videos or photos without consent and using them for blackmail or threats;Posting intimate images or materials of a person for revenge or humiliation;Creating and publishing sexually explicit images or videos generated using artificial intelligence.The eviolenta.md platform represents an important step for the Republic of Moldova towards European standards and the implementation of the Istanbul Convention and GREVIO recommendations, by ensuring access to information and protection against all forms of violence — both online and offline.It is worth noting that 16 years ago, the Women and Girls Trust Line 0 8008 8008, designed, created, and managed by the International Center “La Strada,” began providing continuous support and dialogue for women and girls silently experiencing various forms of violence. Since 2017, it has been a national public service, funded by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Republic of Moldova. Over the years and to date, the Women and Girls Trust Line has received 30,635 calls.

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