A new US$2.5 million initiative, funded by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will support the Republic of Moldova in strengthening disability-inclusive services, improving access to rehabilitation and assistive technologies, and advancing the socio-economic inclusion of persons with disabilities.

Approximately 160,000 people in Moldova live with a recognized disability, representing around 6.7 percent of the population. While important progress has been made in advancing disability rights and inclusion, many persons with disabilities continue to face barriers in accessing rehabilitation services, assistive technologies and opportunities that support independent living and full participation in society.

The initiative will address these challenges through a comprehensive approach that combines institutional modernization, innovation and direct assistance to persons with disabilities.

“Every person should have the opportunity to live independently, participate fully in community life and access the services they need with dignity and without barriers. This partnership will help us strengthen rehabilitation services, expand access to quality assistive technologies and modernize the support system for persons with disabilities. Beyond investing in equipment and infrastructure, we are investing in people, in their independence, inclusion and equal opportunities. Together with our partners, we are building a more accessible and inclusive Moldova where no one is left behind,” stated Natalia Plugaru, Minister of Labour and Social Protection.

As part of the project, a nationwide assessment will examine how persons with disabilities access medical treatment, rehabilitation services and assistive devices, identifying barriers and opportunities for improvement. Based on the findings, a roadmap will be developed to strengthen the effectiveness, transparency and accessibility of disability-related services and support evidence-based reforms.

Another key component of the initiative focuses on strengthening institutional capacities. The project will support the modernization of equipment and technologies at CREPOR, Moldova’s specialized public institution providing rehabilitation services and producing prosthetic and orthopaedic devices. Investments will be complemented by staff training and the introduction of digital case-management solutions. An innovation lab will be set up, bringing together public institutions, academia, civil society organizations and technology experts to develop and test innovative prosthetic and orthopaedic devices.

“This project is highly symbolic as China's first tripartite cooperation project with UNDP and the Government of Moldova, benefiting 160,000 persons with disabilities in Moldova. Funded by the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund established by the Chinese Government, the project represents a concrete step toward implementing the Global Development Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2021. While continuing to address the significant task of improving the well-being of over 85 million persons with disabilities at home, China has provided financial, technical and material support to the United Nations and many other countries over the years. We stand ready to share China's experience, expertise and technology to improve access to high-quality medical rehabilitation services and assistive devices for persons with disabilities in Moldova, and to promote their socio-economic inclusion. We hope the project will also contribute to advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” noted Dong Zhihua, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Moldova.

In parallel, the project will help identify the most urgent needs for assistive devices and support the procurement and their distribution to persons with disabilities, prioritizing those facing the greatest barriers and risks of exclusion.

“In Moldova, women and men with disabilities continue to face barriers in accessing essential services and opportunities on an equal basis with others. Through this project, launched in partnership with China, we will work with national authorities to better understand the quality of people’s experiences in accessing rehabilitation services, identifying existing gaps, and developing a roadmap for more equitable and inclusive access. At the same time, the project will provide much-needed assistive devices to address urgent needs and improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

The initiative will be implemented in the next two years.