Moldova joins European Youth Card network, launching digital-first access to continental benefits
The Republic of Moldova has officially joined the European Youth Card Association (EYCA), marking the nationwide launch of a digital-first platform designed to empower citizens aged 14 to 30 with cross-border opportunities.
The initiative, managed by the National Youth Agency in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Research, integrates Moldova into a network of over 30 countries. This digital tool provides direct access to educational, cultural, and social discounts both locally and across the European Union.
A strategic leap for youth mobility
"Moldova is the latest nation to join this mobility pact," stated Alexandr Petrov, Director of the National Youth Agency. He emphasized that the agency will now replicate and scale the European model to fit the specific needs of Moldovan students and young professionals.
The program primarily targets students and interns, aiming to ease financial constraints by providing negotiated discounts on essential services. These include public transport, libraries, bookstores, and cultural venues such as theaters.
Mobile-exclusive ecosystem
Moving away from traditional physical cards, the service will operate exclusively through a mobile application available on the App Store and Android. This approach ensures that benefits are always accessible and reduces administrative friction for the user.
"We chose a universal digital format to avoid the burden of physical cards," Petrov explained. "The app connects our youth directly to a vast European network of opportunities, accessible right from their smartphones."
Seamless cross-border functionality
The application leverages geolocation technology to provide real-time updates based on the user's location. A Moldovan youth traveling to Romania or Germany will automatically see local discounts and academic mobility programs available in those specific countries.
Conversely, European travelers visiting Moldova will be integrated into the local ecosystem, receiving notifications about national discounts and cultural events. This reciprocity is expected to significantly enhance regional engagement and social inclusion for millions of young Europeans.
Translation by **Iurie Tataru*8
