Administrative reform continues in Moldova: new rules for settlements' amalgamation

The process of voluntary amalgamation of administrative-territorial units (ATUs) is set to be simplified and better adapted to the needs of communities. A legislative initiative to this effect will be submitted to parliament for consideration.

The draft law has been improved, following consultations with mayors and citizens. The new provisions aim to reduce bureaucracy, so that a simpler set of documentation will be required to initiate the process, based on concise reasoning and a list of the settlements involved.

At the same time, localities that rule to merge will have more flexibility in choosing the administrative center and the name of the new administrative-territorial unit. In addition, the fixed limit of 25 kilometers between localities is removed, which would facilitate the process of voluntary amalgamation.

Another important element of the draft provides for the maintenance of public services locally, including through the Unified Service Delivery Centers (CUPS), so that citizens will not have to travel to the administrative center of the new unit.

The amendments also bring clarity regarding administrative organization: in amalgamated localities, no early elections will be held before the 2027 local elections.

The authorities say that the purpose of the reform is to strengthen local administrations and develop communities. So far, two voluntary amalgamation processes have been completed, in the city of Leova and in the commune of Calinesti, north-western Falesti district.

According to the data presented, 298 communities have expressed interest in initiating a voluntary amalgamation process.