Moldovan local authorities warn of specialist exodus over salary law

Local authorities in Moldova are facing potential personnel shortages due to a proposed law regarding public administration salaries. Nina Cereteu, Vice President of the Congress of Local Authorities of Moldova (CALM) and Mayor of Drochia, warned that new remuneration provisions could trigger an exodus of specialists.

Key concerns include the removal of a 50% salary indemnity guarantee for mayors, vice-mayors, and local council secretaries. Additionally, Cereteu highlighted a discrepancy in the salary calculation base, noting that local administrations would use a base of 4,200 lei compared to 5,000 lei in the central administration. The organization warns that these changes, alongside the potential loss of up to six salary categories, may undermine administrative-territorial reforms intended to strengthen local capacities.