Moldova to consolidate local government through administrative reform

Moldova is undergoing a significant administrative reform to consolidate its local government structure. Government Secretary General Alexei Buzu announced that 63% of the country’s mayors’ offices, totaling 561 units, have opted for voluntary amalgamation. This process is expected to reduce the total number of mayors’ offices from 892 to approximately 292 by 2027.

To support this transition, the government has allocated 4.5 billion lei in financial incentives. Significant funding is earmarked for specific regions, including over 157.5 million lei for Ungheni, 116.6 million lei for Călărași, 85.3 million lei for Rezina, and 72.6 million lei for Rîșcani. The reform aims to improve essential services such as water, sanitation, roads, and street lighting, particularly in smaller communities where populations have declined.

For the remaining 254 local authorities that have not chosen voluntary amalgamation, a statutory procedure will be implemented. Amalgamation remains optional for municipalities with populations exceeding 3,000 residents. A legislative package regarding mandatory amalgamation is scheduled for public consultation in September, with the goal of parliamentary adoption this autumn.