MP: State expanding social protection for citizens living abroad. Over 800,000 Moldovans covered by social agreements

The Republic of Moldova is expanding its social protection mechanisms for citizens living abroad, and more than 800,000 Moldovans are covered by international agreements in this area. MP Adrian Băluțel made the statements today during a plenary session of the Parliament.

He emphasized that the diaspora represents an essential segment of society, consisting of citizens who have left the country to support their families.

“Let’s reflect on the fact that we have about 1,200,000 people in the diaspora. These are Moldovans who left the country in search of a better life and to support their families. Each of us has a relative, a friend, or a former colleague working abroad. We know why they left and how hard it was for them, especially for those who left in the 1990s and 2000s,” Băluțel said.

He highlighted the diaspora’s major economic role, both through financial contributions and through the support provided to local communities in the Republic of Moldova.

“Today we are proud of these people. They have demonstrated to the whole world that Moldovans are hardworking and honest. We are also proud when they return home through investments or when they support projects in their villages and communities. Through programs dedicated to the diaspora alone, hundreds of local projects have been implemented that have improved people’s lives,” said the MP.

Băluțel drew attention to the impact of remittances on the national economy.

“In 2025, the diaspora sent home about 1.5 billion euros. This money provided many families with the opportunity to raise their children, build a home, or start a small business. For the economy of the Republic of Moldova, the diaspora remains a fundamental pillar,” he noted.

The MP emphasized that the state has a responsibility to strengthen ties with citizens living abroad and to provide them with social protection.

“We have a moral obligation to these people. Wherever they may be, the Republic of Moldova must assure them that they are not forgotten and that their social rights will be recognized. They need to know that they can return home, and their contributions will follow them,” Băluțel said.

He noted that in recent years, the number of people covered by social protection agreements has increased significantly.

Băluțel also listed the countries with which the Republic of Moldova is making progress in this process.

“We are in the final stages of ratifying agreements with France, Switzerland, Canada, and Ukraine, and we are in the negotiation phase with other countries, such as Croatia. Our goal is clear: to ensure that as many citizens of diaspora as possible are covered by social security,” he emphasized.

Currently, the Republic of Moldova has concluded 23 social security agreements, 18 of which are already in effect.