Strengthening the capacities of the Moldovan Social Assistance Sector
Period of implementation: July 2014 – May 2015
In 2011 the Moldovan economy succeeded to overcome the 2009 financial crisis. Although an increase in remittances and the recovery of economy have been noticed in the past years, poverty and social inequality remain serious problems in the Republic of Moldova. Poverty rates and inequality levels decreased in urban and rural areas. Nevertheless, the inequality level differs from one region to another. The most equitable distribution was found for consumption in small towns, and the most inequitable distribution was in rural areas.
The poverty decrease registered during the years 2010-2011 is correlated, first of all, with the economic recovery registered in this period. At the same time, a significant impact on poverty level decrease resulted from the social-orientation programs promoted by the Government, especially the provision of means tested cash benefit to low-income households, which proved to be very efficient. Also, an increase in volume of remittances had an important effect.
Though general poverty trends are decreasing, child poverty remains a major concern. Children are exposed to a higher poverty risk as compared to the total population. Most poor children, about 85%, live in rural areas. This situation is provoked by the higher share of the rural population, in general, and by the fact that economic opportunities in villages are very limited. That makes these children exposed to social risks. Social exclusion remains an important issue in Moldova and amongst the socially excluded categories one can find children and families with many children and the youth.
Like many other Eastern European countries, Moldova is in the process of reforming the social protection system, changing from a categorical approach to social protection tailored to meet individual needs of each beneficiary. Moldovan authorities define Social Protection as a set of measures to ensure the basic life standards for all people regardless of the categories they represent or their income level.
This project is implemented by CRPE – R. Moldova.
Donor: The project is supported by UNICEF Moldova.