Moldova Security Forum 2026 // Moldovan official says resilience not defined only by preventing Shocks, but also by systemic capacity to maintain core functions

Moldova is strengthening its crisis management system and preparing the population for emergency situations, including through a campaign dedicated to the first 72 hours after a crisis starts, which will be held in November. National Crisis Management Center Director Serghei Diaconu today made statements to this effect at the Moldova Security Forum 2026.

The official emphasized that current risks can no longer be managed separately, as a crisis may affect more sectors simultaneously, while disruptions can cross borders and institutional boundaries.

“Resilience is not defined only by preventing shocks, but also by the systemic capacity to maintain core functions, when simultaneous chain failures occur,” Serghei Diaconu said.

According to him, Moldova has experienced the effects of cross-border risks, including in the context of the war in Ukraine and the situation involving contamination of the Dniester River, which required the intervention of more institutions. Such situations show the need to coordinate the resources and actions of the responsible authorities.

The director of the National Crisis Management Center noted that the institution's role was to provide an overall picture of crisis situations and support the coordination of decisions at the executive level.

At present, the national crisis management platform connects more than 70 institutions, facilitating cooperation among decision-makers, technical experts and territorial structures. According to Diaconu, cooperation between civilian and military institutions, joint exercises and information sharing are essential for a rapid response when time is critical.

The system is based on three main capabilities: situational awareness through real-time data collection, the identification and coordination of available resources and the maintenance of the state's core functions, even when essential services are affected.

Another goal is to enhance the population's level of preparedness. In this regard, Moldova has a three-year national civil preparedness programme aimed at training citizens, strengthening the capacities of local authorities and involving private companies, the media and volunteers.

The campaign planned for next November will focus on preparing citizens for the first 72 hours after an emergency situation begins. According to the official, a better-prepared population enables specialized services to focus on priority interventions and saving lives.

Serghei Diaconu emphasized that resilience involved the ability to anticipate risks, absorb shocks, maintain essential services and ensure quick recovery.

The third edition of the Moldova Security Forum is taking place in Chisinau over two days. On October 8 and 9, the event brings together more than 700 participants and about 90 experts from 20 countries, in order to discuss the security of Moldova, Europe and the Black Sea region.

The subject of this edition is, Strengthening Democratic Resilience and Security through Strategic Vision and Multilateral Cooperation.