Moldova expands social protection and employment support services

At the National Forum of Social Protection Professionals, Moldovan President Maia Sandu and Minister of Labor and Social Protection Natalia Plugaru outlined significant expansions to the country's social and employment services.

Minister Plugaru announced that the government aims to provide employment support to over 100,000 people over the next four years. This follows a successful year where employment services helped more than 20,000 individuals find work. The Minister also highlighted the impact of the ‘Restart’ reform, noting that social assistance coverage has grown from approximately 3,000 people in 2024 to 78,000 currently. This includes a significant increase in case management for children, which rose from 2,700 to 23,000, and a reduction in children living in residential institutions from 11,000 to 360.

President Sandu emphasized the importance of transitioning from mere support to fostering independence through legal employment. She noted progress in combating undeclared work, stating that more citizens are moving into legal employment to secure rights such as healthcare protection and pension contributions. Additionally, the reform has expanded services for the elderly, people with disabilities, and victims of violence, with support for women victims increasing from 100 to approximately 6,900.