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EU, UNFPA Equip Moldova's Census with €800,000 Digital Upgrade

The European Union and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) unveiled a significant €800,000 contribution today, equipping Moldova's upcoming Population and Housing Census (RPL) with a digital makeover.

This vital support, announced by the National Bureau of Statistics (BNS), arrives ahead of the RPL's scheduled run from April 8 to July 7, 2024.

"This equipment donation marks a pivotal moment for data collection in Moldova," declared BNS Director General Oleg Cara. "For the first time, we'll capture data electronically, guaranteeing higher quality and significantly reducing interview and processing durations. This translates to faster data dissemination, crucial for informed policymaking." Beyond efficiency gains, Cara emphasised the sustainable benefits: "Tablets eliminate paper forms, fostering a more eco-friendly approach."

The provided equipment consists of 3,000 tablets preloaded with data collection applications. These will empower census takers to record information directly in electronic questionnaires, ensuring greater accuracy and confidentiality.

EU Ambassador to Moldova Jānis Mažeiks underscored the EU's and UNFPA's unwavering commitment to upholding international standards in the RPL. "This digital transformation aligns perfectly with our shared goals," he stated. "Accurate and reliable demographic data, covering social and economic conditions alongside housing stock, are fundamental for crafting effective national policies. These tablets empower informed decision-making, safeguarding the country's future."

Echoing Mažeiks' sentiment, UNFPA Deputy Representative in Moldova Natalia Plugaru highlighted the value of comprehensive data. "Understanding population dynamics, structure, and needs is crucial for policy development," she asserted. "This initiative strengthens Moldova's demographic resilience, a key priority for UNFPA."

This timely EU-UNFPA contribution complements the 1,800 tablets already procured by the Moldovan government, ensuring full equipment for the census exercise. Funded by the state budget, the 2024 RPL remains the nation's most critical statistical undertaking, offering a comprehensive demographic snapshot every 10 years.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Viorica Rusica

Viorica Rusica

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