EU boosts Moldova: €240M for education & social reforms
The European Union is set to allocate over 240 million euros to Moldova for modernizing education and bolstering social policies.
During an official visit to Chișinău from June 9-10, European Commissioner Roxana Mînzatu told Moldova 1 in an interview that these investments align with the ongoing need to harmonize labor legislation with European standards, with more than 20 directives currently under review. Key objectives include boosting employment, expanding vocational training, and doubling both the gross domestic product (GDP) and the average salary, according to the European Commission Vice-President.
Roxana Mînzatu, who oversees the labor market, social rights, and education portfolio, explained that while much of Moldova's labor legislation already aligns with the EU acquis, 20 to 25 European directives are still under review. This is due to existing legislative discrepancies and gaps requiring regulation to meet European standards.
The Commissioner clarified that in education, the European Union's competencies are more limited, as member states determine curriculum and educational system organization. The EU's role primarily involves cooperation, sharing best practices, and providing investment funds.
In contrast, regarding labor legislation and employment, Moldova "will need to adopt European legislative standards, which will require substantial efforts," Mînzatu stated.
Investments aimed at reducing inactivity and doubling GDP
A key objective is to increase employment and equip individuals with skills genuinely needed in the economy. "Our primary goal is for Moldova to double its gross domestic product and average salary," Mînzatu affirmed. She noted that these investments will also support the expansion of dual education and the modernization of vocational schools, thereby facilitating the integration of young people and vulnerable individuals into the labor market.
A portion of the Growth Plan funds for Moldova will also be channeled into education and social policies. "We have allocated over 240 million euros, and we clearly aim for investments in this area to grow. This plan will fund the modernization, equipping, and streamlining of schools and kindergartens, along with the creation of nursery places," the European official explained.
The European Union will also support reducing disparities between urban and rural areas by funding model schools, student transportation, and equipping science laboratories, in partnership with Moldova's Ministry of Education.
Roxana Mînzatu serves as the Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, overseeing the "People, Skills and Readiness" portfolio within the second von der Leyen Commission, which commenced its mandate on December 1, 2024.
The Growth Plan for Moldova, adopted by the European Commission in October 2024, earmarks 1.9 billion euros for reforms and investments from 2025–2027. These funds are contingent on concrete progress in aligning with EU standards. The plan targets sectors like infrastructure, energy, digitalization, education, and employment, aiming to stimulate the economy and progressively integrate Moldova into the European single market.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
