Strengthening Local Communities: Moldova’s Public Administration Reform

Building strong, connected communities that are closer to citizens is the central goal of the local public administration reform being implemented by authorities in Chișinău

In this context, Alexei Buzu, Secretary General of the Government, participated in the 50th session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg, emphasizing the importance of trust in democracy at the local level, reports MOLDPRES.

“Trust in democracy and the state begins in the community. It is built when people have access to better services, authorities listen to them, and changes are visible in everyday life,” Buzu stated.

Priorities and Topics Discussed at the Congress

The 50th session brought together delegates from 46 member states to examine key issues in local and regional governance, including:

• Reconstructing communities affected by war;
• Ensuring free and fair local and regional elections;
• Protecting local elected officials and strengthening democracy;
• Enhancing social rights and citizens’ access to efficient public services.

The agenda also included discussions on current challenges faced by local authorities and how they can respond more effectively to community needs.

Local Public Administration Reform: Objectives and Impact

During the session, Alexei Buzu presented Moldova’s progress in implementing local public administration reform, considered one of the country’s most important modernization initiatives.

“This reform aims to build stronger, better-connected communities that are closer to citizens. It involves more accessible public services, infrastructure investments, greater transparency, increased efficiency, and real dialogue between central and local authorities and citizens,” the official said.

He reiterated the Council of Europe’s role as a trusted partner in the reform process and reaffirmed Moldova’s commitment to continue implementing measures that strengthen local democracy and support the country’s European path.

Role of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities

The Congress represents the political voice of regions and local communities in Europe. Structured into two chambers — Local Authorities and Regions — the Congress contributes to:

• Promoting and monitoring local democracy;
• Encouraging self-governance;
• Implementing the European Charter of Local Self-Government;
• Formulating recommendations to help member states strengthen territorial governance and citizens’ rights.

Moldova on the European Stage

Currently, Moldova holds the Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, the organization’s main decision-making body, for the period November 14, 2025 – May 15, 2026. The Chișinău program focuses on:

• Strengthening the mechanisms of the European Convention on Human Rights;
• Promoting children’s rights;
• Combating violence against women;
• Enhancing social rights;
• Supporting local democracy;
• Fighting disinformation;
• Providing firm support for Ukraine, including operationalizing the Special Tribunal and the Complaints Commission.

Through these initiatives, Moldova reaffirms its commitment to developing robust, efficient, and transparent local communities while consolidating its European path and protecting citizens’ fundamental rights.