Sibling bonds and special needs: The hurdles facing Chisinau’s adoption drive
Chisinau municipal authorities have identified 85 children eligible for adoption at the start of 2026.
The City Hall issued an appeal to prospective parents, highlighting the urgent need for stable homes for those currently in municipal placement centers.
Current adoption statistics
Of the 85 children, 22 are already navigating the legal process. This includes five cases finalizing documentation, two in the national matching phase, and four children already placed with their new families. Another nine cases are currently pending in court for national adoption.
International adoption remains a path for some, with two children currently awaiting court decisions to join families abroad. Additionally, eight children are under the specialized care of the Tutelary Service while long-term integration solutions are sought.
Challenges in placement
The Chisinau General Directorate for the Protection of Children's Rights (DGPDC) noted that sibling groups and special needs children face the longest wait times. Currently, 22 children belong to sibling groups—consisting of four groups of three and five groups of two.
Authorities prioritize keeping siblings together, which often complicates the search for suitable households. Furthermore, 17 children on the list have specific special needs requiring dedicated medical and emotional support.
A legacy of reform
Moldova has seen a 95% decrease in the number of children living in residential institutions over the last 18 years. This shift reflects a national move toward family-based care. Today, approximately 430 children remain in residential care nationwide, many of whom are children with disabilities.
Municipal officials emphasized that adoption is a lifelong commitment rather than a mere legal act. Families interested in the procedure can contact the DGPDC at 022 21 26 48 or 067 44 33 56 for detailed guidance.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
