Discussions on local public administration reform held with representatives of Moldova's extra-parliamentary parties

Non-parliamentary parties were invited today to the Government for discussions in the process of developing the concept of local public administration reform. During the meeting, the stages of the reform, the impact of certain decisions on localities, as well as ways to improve local services were presented.

The Deputy Secretary General of the Government, Alexandru Iacub, emphasized that the transformation of first- and second-level local public administration is based on three pillars. The first objective is the administrative-territorial reorganization, by applying a more efficient structure of local public authorities and focusing on the fair distribution of public resources. The second objective concerns better management of local public administration, by increasing the capacity of teams to design and implement large projects. At the same time, a new model of local governance will be implemented, with an emphasis on citizens’ voices and their more active involvement in decision-making processes.

“We are all aware that this reform is necessary. We are firmly convinced that, as a result of the reform, there will be more money for development and less money for bureaucracy, by reducing certain paper-based procedures, digitizing services, and creating new capacities for attracting investments,” said Alexandru Iacub.

During the meeting, the stimulation of the voluntary amalgamation process was discussed as an efficient solution to make communities stronger. Currently, over 400 mayoralties are at various stages of voluntary amalgamation or have announced their intention to initiate the process. Other topics addressed referred to increasing the financial capacities of mayoralties, the role of district councils in the new structure, the opening of unified centers for the provision of public services, and the expansion of the number of services offered.

Most non-parliamentary parties expressed support for the implementation of the reform, while also mentioning potential risks that may arise. Party representatives stressed the importance of dialogue and of avoiding the politicization of the issue of local public administration reform. More focused discussions on concrete aspects will take place when the reform concept is presented, which is planned for March of this year.