Moldova joins Creative Europe Programme; PM says Moldova has massive talent, huge potential in culture

Moldova has been accepted into the Creative Europe programme, the European Union's most important programme dedicated to the cultural sector, and the government continues to prioritize this field by investing significantly in it. Prime Minister Dorin Recean has made statements to this effect.

‘’Culture has been prioritized by the government and has received significant investments in recent years. Moldova has talent, huge potential in the field of culture, and we have much to be proud of around the world. The government will continue to invest in culture and I urge all citizens to choose to attend our theaters, read local authors, buy books from Moldova and praise our country for the natural and cultural riches we have,’’ said Dorin Recean.

According to the PM, the government has implemented a string of major investments and reforms in the culture sector:

• The budget for culture increased from 470 million lei in 2021 to 743 million lei in 2025;

• Salaries for artistic staff were increased by 25 per cent for about 1,700 employees;

• Over 80 cultural institutions, including cultural centers, museums and monuments, have been renovated;

• 161 cultural projects were funded, with a total budget of 28 million lei;

• The Cultural Voucher benefited over 10,000 young people, who purchased more than 53,000 cultural products worth over 9 million lei;

• The Martisor Festival, organized by the Mihai Eminescu National Theatre, reached Moldovans in 10 European cities;

• The National Cultural Fund was created, with a record budget of 28 million lei;

• The editing of local books and the equipping of national libraries with publications were supported;

• Allowances for young employees in cultural institutions in rural areas have been increased;

• For the year 2025, 50 million lei was allocated for funding 159 cultural projects through the Access to Culture Programme;

• More heritage institutions have been renovated or are in the process of renovation;

• Moldova is promoted as a touristic and cultural destination internationally;

• Investments in cinematography increased from 6 million lei in 2020 to 20 million lei in 2025.

The European Commission approved Moldova's application to join the Creative Europe Programme, the main instrument of the European Union for supporting the cultural and creative sector. The agreement is to be signed on September 2, during the official visit to Chisinau by European Commissioner for Culture Glenn Micallef. According to the Ministry of Culture, starting from January 1, 2026,  Moldova will be able to participate in European cultural projects under the same conditions as EU member states.