New opportunities for artists, culture sector professionals: Moldova to join Creative Europe Programme

Moldova will join the European Union's Creative Europe programme, which will open up new opportunities for artists and culture sector professionals. The draft law for ratifying the Agreement between Moldova and the European Union on  participation in the Programme is set to be examined at the next government meeting, scheduled for November 26.

The Agreement gives Moldova the right to participate, as an associated country, in all actions within the three components of the Programme: Culture, Media and Cross-sectoral. It strengthens bilateral relations with the European Union and enhances Moldova's visibility regionally and internationally, offering an extensive framework for cultural cooperation and intercultural dialogue.

The Agreement will come into force after the internal ratification procedures by the parties are completed. Subsequently, as of January 1, 2026, the Agreement will be applicable for Moldova.

Moldova's participation in the EU's Creative Europe programme will support the sustainable and competitive development of culture and creative industries, with a direct impact on the modernization of the sectors. Through access to European funding, technical support and international cooperation opportunities, cultural and creative operators in Moldova will be able to develop innovative and sustainable projects, thus contributing to diversifying the cultural product on the market and creating quality jobs, both in urban and rural areas with high creative potential.

In the social and cultural landscape, the Agreement supports the development of culture and creative industries, encourages active participation of the civil society and facilitates access to opportunities for young people, artists, professionals and cultural organizations, thereby contributing to social cohesion and the promotion of democratic values.

The Creative Europe programme has a total budget of 2.4 billion euros for the period 2021–2027 for all member states and provides funding lines meant for artists, cultural organizations and creative industries.

The Agreement between Moldova and the European Union on Moldova's participation in the EU's Creative Europe Programme, aimed at cultural and creative sectors, was signed in Chisinau on September 2, 2025.