Mihai POPȘOI and Florence BAUER, dialogue on strengthening the Republic of Moldova’s demographic resilience and social protection mechanisms

Mihai Popșoi and the UNFPA Regional Director discuss gender equality and the protection of women

Strengthening gender equality, preventing violence against women, and developing mechanisms to protect citizens were among the main topics discussed during a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mihai Popșoi and Florence Bauer, UNFPA Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Support for strengthening institutions

During the discussions, Mihai Popșoi expressed appreciation for the support provided by UNFPA in strengthening the institutional capacities of the Republic of Moldova. The official also highlighted the progress made in promoting women’s participation in political and public life.

The minister reaffirmed the authorities’ commitment to strengthening mechanisms for preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence.

Policies focused on citizens’ needs

Mihai Popșoi stressed that the measures promoted in the areas of gender equality and protection against violence are aimed at bringing about tangible improvements in people’s lives, rather than merely improving the Republic of Moldova’s position in international rankings.

“These policies are not being promoted for the sake of statistics or international rankings, but to concretely improve the quality of life of the people of the Republic of Moldova. We will continue to strengthen institutions and protection mechanisms so that they can effectively respond to citizens’ needs,” the Minister of Foreign Affairs stated.

Demographic resilience and support for families

Another topic discussed was strengthening the demographic resilience of the Republic of Moldova. The officials discussed measures aimed at supporting families and young people, expanding childcare services, and increasing women’s participation in the labour market.

The issues were addressed in the context of the demographic changes facing the country and the need for public policies adapted to new social and economic realities.

Support for refugees from Ukraine

Florence Bauer praised the results achieved by the Republic of Moldova in responding to the situation of refugees from Ukraine. The UNFPA Regional Director highlighted the integrated nature of the authorities’ response, through which support provided to refugees also contributes to strengthening and developing services for local communities.

The Republic of Moldova–UNFPA partnership

At the end of the meeting, Mihai Popșoi and Florence Bauer reaffirmed their interest in deepening cooperation between the Republic of Moldova and UNFPA.

The partnership is set to be further strengthened in the context of the Republic of Moldova’s European path and the future United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.