Chapter 19 – social policy and employment in discussion in Brussels

Chapter 19 – Social policy and employment, an important sector in the European integration process of the Republic of Moldova, is being analyzed these days in Brussels as part of negotiations with the European Union. Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Cristina Gherasimov highlighted the progress made by our country in this sector, also set out in the 2024 Enlargement Package.


"Our country has made progress in this area through measures aimed at increasing employment levels and improving the connection between social assistance institutions and those responsible for employment. Thus, in just the first three months of the year, the National Employment Agency helped 5,000 people find jobs," Gherasimov said.


State Secretary of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection Mihai Gabriel Ciobanu pointed out the impact of the reforms on citizens.


"Implementing policies in this area means better working conditions, where rights are protected and respected, equality of opportunities and non-discriminatory access to the labor market, more European funds for social projects and modernizing social protection systems," Mihai Gabriel Ciobanu said.


The representative of the European Integration Office, Marinela Șeremet, emphasized the importance of aligning with EU legislation in the sector.


"Implementing European legislation in this area will help us create safer and better-paying jobs. Along with this, more young people will be able to start businesses in their communities, more Moldovans will wish to return home, parents and grandparents will have better pensions, and we will be able to build a more prosperous future here, at home," Marinela Șeremet said.


Chapter 19 of the EU accession process concerns social policy and employment. It includes the protection of workers' rights, workplace safety, equality of treatment and social dialogue. It also involves measures for poverty reduction, supporting vulnerable groups, increasing employment and accessing European funds for social projects.