Consultations on local public administration reform held in all districts of country and Gagauzia: Over 4,500 mayors and citizens participated

The Government consulted on the vision for local public administration reform in all districts of the Republic of Moldova and Gagauzia on 9 February - 18 March 2026. More than 4,500 local representatives and citizens took part in the discussions, bringing suggestions and recommendations to be included in the reform concept.

Government representatives presented the main planned changes, the stages of the reform, and its impact on community development. At the same time, they discussed measures to simplify the process of voluntary amalgamation of mayoralties, as well as the redefinition of the role of districts in the new structure of local public administration.

The main objective of the reform is to build stronger mayoralties, capable of accelerating the development of localities, raising citizens’ standard of living, and bringing public services closer to the people.

“I thank everyone who got involved in this consultation process. I am sure we will work as one team, a big team, for this change that our citizens have been waiting for. Let us have strong mayoralties for developed communities and better services for people,” said Secretary General of the Government Alexei Buzu.

In parallel, public consultations were also held on legislative amendments to simplify the process of voluntary amalgamation. The Government is counting on the voluntary amalgamation of mayoralties, starting from the premise that local elected officials and communities know best how they can cooperate to strengthen their capacities and join forces for development.

The proposed amendments provide for greater flexibility in the process of voluntary amalgamation, including in the way citizens are consulted. They also aim to debureaucratize procedures; eliminate several documents that previously had to be prepared by local public authorities; remove the obligation to organize early elections before the 2027 general local elections; and offer greater flexibility in determining the administrative center. The amendment package to the law on voluntary amalgamation is to be submitted to the Government next week.

The concept of local public administration reform will be finalized and made public in the coming period, after which it will be subject to broad consultations. The drafting of the legislative package and its submission to Parliament are planned for autumn 2026.