Moldovans abroad want to contribute to their country’s development
They left in search of a better future, but they have not forgotten their roots. Hundreds of Moldovans living abroad returned home for a few days to attend the Diaspora Forum. They brought back valuable experiences from other countries and a strong desire to contribute to their homeland's development, whether from afar or by returning to live there.
Moldovans from various parts of the world gathered to discuss European integration and ways to strengthen their connection to their home country.
For some, homesickness remained a strong feeling even after spending many years abroad. Viorica Ceban, who has settled in Greece, returned to the forum with her child. She shared her experience, saying, “I regret leaving home because it has been very difficult to develop professionally here after eight years in Greece. I am just a simple worker, unfortunately. Back home, I worked in education, but here I do whatever job I can find.”
Others, like Amina, have lived in Jordan for almost a decade and are considering a possible return to Moldova. She expressed her thoughts, stating, “Here, the streets are cleaner, there are more trees, and there are parks where children can play and read. I’m thinking about returning, but I’m not completely sure yet. I'm also considering pursuing my master's degree in another country and want to explore my options before making a definite decision.”
Alexandrina Robu-Cepoi works in the European Parliament, while Tatiana Pruneanu runs an accounting firm in Canada. Both believe that Moldovans can contribute to the country's development, regardless of where they live.
“First of all, we need to create an attractive environment with competitive salaries. Many people have already built families in their current locations, myself included, and we need to foster love for our country. I can assure you that Moldovans support their homeland from wherever they are,” said Alexandrina Robu-Cepoi.
“I believe that every Moldovan, no matter where we are, can contribute to our country bit by bit. If we each do something for Moldova, in a few years, it can become a highly developed nation,” added Tatiana Pruneanu, who resides in Canada.
For some Moldovans, returning home is not just a plan. After spending years in the United States and Spain, Cătălina Castraveț returned home to open a business in Orheiul Vechi.
“When we come back to Moldova, we must be aware of what we are returning to. Let’s not only come back with expectations but also with a vision and constructive criticism to help bring about change and improvement,” she stated.
The forum highlighted the challenges faced by those who choose to return to Moldova, particularly the lack of clear regulations in certain areas.
Authorities emphasize that the diaspora should play an active role in the development processes of the Republic of Moldova and its journey towards European integration.
“Let’s create a plan for each member state and aim to be ready for EU accession by 2030. Over the next two to three years, we will promote the Republic of Moldova and clarify any uncertainties about who Moldovans are and why they deserve to be part of the EU,” stated Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova.
Current estimates suggest that nearly one million Moldovan citizens are working or living abroad long-term.
