Moldova's Labor Reforms Show Success, Boost Integration
Reforms targeting key labour market institutions are seeing positive initial outcomes.
More individuals are securing formal employment, while the number of those working without contracts and receiving under-the-table salaries is declining. These reforms are part of the Republic of Moldova's broader European integration process, as explained by Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labor and Social Protection, in an interview with Moldova 1.
"We see positive results at both the State Labor Inspectorate, where we can identify more individuals working without contracts and provide support for formalisation, and at the National Employment Agency, which has facilitated the placement of more people into the workforce. Clearly, our efforts are achieving results. Our focus for 2024 is on accelerating this momentum, ensuring the quality of these changes," stated Minister Buzu.
Labour inspection and employment reforms are integral to European integration. The Minister indicates that the current focus is on analysing how well Moldova's legal and institutional framework aligns with European standards. This evaluation may conclude this year, paving the way for negotiations on the labour and social protection aspects of the accession process.
"It is crucial to understand that transposing European legislation is only a small part of the integration effort. True integration, as our Prime Minister stated, means building Europe here at home. This means creating decent, well-paid jobs, providing opportunities for job seekers, offering professional training and skills development, and ensuring accessible, high-quality social services. Ultimately, this requires strong, efficient, and well-integrated institutions," Minister Buzu emphasised.
Last year, the Republic of Moldova aligned itself with the European Pillar of Social Rights, demonstrating its commitment to the European Union's stance on fair labour rights, decent working conditions, and guaranteed social protection for workers. Moldova is also in the process of signing the Accession Agreement to the "Employment and Social Innovation" component of the European Social Fund Plus, which will make the country eligible for funding that supports employment initiatives, education, social inclusion, and other social policy goals.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
