Moldova becomes first non-EU country to sign cooperation arrangement with the European Labour Authority

Moldova has become the first country outside the European Union to sign a Cooperation Arrangement with the European Labour Authority (ELA). Minister of Labor and Social Protection Alexei Buzu said that this partnership was an investment in the future of the labor market from Moldova.

The signing event took place in the context of Minister Alexei Buzu’s visit to Slovakia.

According to the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the document paves the way for enhanced cooperation between Moldova and European institutions in essential such areas as labor mobility, the coordination of social security systems, and the development of institutional capacities.

Minister Alexei Buzu noted that this partnership would create the necessary framework for aligning Moldova with European standards and would facilitate the country's participation in more relevant mechanisms of the European Union, including the European Employment Services network EURES.

“We want Moldovan workers to be protected, respected and to enjoy the same rights as all European citizens. The collaboration with ELA is an investment in the future of our country’s labor market,” said Alexei Buzu.

The process of drafting the Arrangement began in November 2023 and was followed by a string of technical consultations between the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection and ELA. Following the discussions, the document was adjusted, in order to reflect the status of Moldova as a candidate country for EU accession, being backed and validated by the European Commission.