On 10 December 2025, UNDP Moldova and the State Chancellery hosted a dialogue dedicated to local and regional development, economic growth, and the modernization of public administration. The event brought together over 70 representatives of central and local public authorities, development partners, mayors from various communities across the country, and experts.

"The process of European integration offers us a unique opportunity to develop our communities, to bring fairness and better, more accessible services to all citizens. It is time to take advantage of external funding and support opportunities, aligning ourselves with the principles of the European Union – cooperation, fairness, and sustainable development. In this context, strengthening the capacity of local and regional authorities to access European funds and implement institutional and administrative reforms is essential for providing modern, efficient, and people-oriented public services," said Alexandru Iacub, Deputy Secretary General of the Government.

“UNDP supports local and regional development, economic growth, and the modernization of public administration through a comprehensive approach at both local and regional levels. Today’s discussion comes at a moment when Moldova is advancing key reforms, from public administration and voluntary amalgamation to improving service delivery and strengthening institutional capacity. These reforms are essential for ensuring that public resources and investments reach communities effectively and contribute to balanced, resilient territorial development. 

For accelerating Moldova’s development and attracting sustainable investment we need strong institutions, coherent policies, and collaborative governance. UNDP remains fully committed to working alongside national and local authorities, development partners, and other stakeholders to support modern, resilient, and inclusive systems for local and regional development - systems capable of attracting sustainable investment and delivering tangible improvements in people’s lives,” said Seher Ariner, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

The discussions focused on the key challenges and capacities of local public authorities that require investment to ensure the absorption and effective management of public and foreign funds. The impact of the voluntary amalgamation process on strengthening institutional capacity and resource management was also addressed, along with the consolidation of public services through efficient mechanisms and tools such as One Stop Shops (CUPS) and Inter-municipal Development Associations (IDA).

Recently, in Leova, one of the first voluntarily amalgamated administrative units in Moldova with the support of Sweden, Norway, and UNDP, four One Stop Shops (CUPS) were equipped with the necessary furniture and equipment, one in each locality: Leova, Tochile-Răducani, Sîrma, and Sărata-Răzeși. Additionally, UNDP is currently equipping five more CUPS within two groups of localities engaged in voluntary amalgamation – Zîrnești, Cucoara, and Baurci-Moldoveni in Cahul district, and Zolotievca and Ochiul Roș in Anenii Noi district. This will ensure continuity and access to local administrative services after amalgamation, including for rural women, older people, and other vulnerable groups.

During the event, partnership certificates were awarded to four groups of communities that have initiated the voluntary amalgamation process:

• Roșcani Cluster – Roșcani, Calfa, Telița (Anenii Noi district);
• Leova city (amalgamated) – Leova, Tochile-Răducani, Sîrma, Sărata-Răzeși;
• Geamăna Cluster – Geamăna, Ochiul Roș, Zolotievca (Anenii Noi district);
• Călinești commune (amalgamated) – Călinești, Chetriș, Hîncești (Fălești district).

With financial support from the Government of Slovakia, in 2026 these communities will benefit from training on renewable energy, assistance in developing investment projects including feasibility studies, technical designs and financial models, energy audits for public institutions, and support in engaging the private sector for the sustainable implementation of energy solutions.

These communities will also receive support to develop or update their Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAPs), with assistance from Sweden, Norway, and UNDP. Subsequently, they will be eligible to access funding for community projects and women-led entrepreneurship initiatives.

UNDP Moldova and its partners remain committed to supporting communities involved in or already undergoing voluntary amalgamation. Efforts focus on strengthening local capacities, attracting green investments, and sustainable community development, in line with national priorities and Moldova’s energy transition agenda.