Strategic labor reform: Moldova accelerates employment with massive subsidies for youth and women
The Government of the Republic of Moldova officially launched the "Connecting People with Opportunities" campaign on Tuesday, March 4. This initiative marks a decisive step toward the national goal of integrating over 100,000 citizens into the labor market by 2030.
During a press conference, Minister of Labor and Social Protection Natalia Plugaru emphasized the strategy’s focus on youth, women, and vulnerable groups. The campaign aims to bridge the current mismatch between employer demand for skilled labor and available human capital.
Ambitious growth and record results
The labor market showed significant momentum in 2025, with 20,000 people successfully employed—a 20% increase compared to 2024. For the current year, the Ministry has set an even more ambitious target of 25,000 new placements.
Employment gains have been particularly strong in public administration, education, and healthcare. Meanwhile, sectors such as trade (19%), agriculture (16%), and manufacturing (12%) remain primary drivers of job creation.
A six-fold increase in financial support
To catalyze this transition, the government has authorized a massive expansion of the active employment budget. Funding will surge from 34 million MDL in 2025 to 196 million MDL (approx. €10 million) in 2026.
These funds provide direct subsidies to employers and financial aid for job seekers. Support includes vocational training, retraining programs, and travel allowances for those commuting from rural areas.
Empowering the next generation and women
A dedicated measure supports citizens aged 15–29 entering the workforce for the first time. The state offers a monthly salary supplement of €153 (approx. 3,000 MDL) for one year for those joining seven strategic industries.
Furthermore, the authorities aim for women to represent 60% of program beneficiaries this year. To support mothers returning to work, the government plans to create 5,000 new childcare spots over the next 24 months.
Modernizing digital and European integration
According to Raisa Dogaru, Director of the National Employment Agency (ANOFM), the agency is undergoing a complete digital transformation. This includes future synchronization with the European Employment Services (EURES) network.
Current support mechanisms include vocational training vouchers worth €275 (approx. 5,400 MDL). Additionally, employers who hire persons with disabilities can receive grants of up to €7,890 (approx. 154,721 MDL) for workplace adaptation.
Citizens seeking employment or career guidance are encouraged to contact the ANOFM call center at 0 8000 1000 for free professional consultation.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
