Republic of Moldova marks World Population Day

The Republic of Moldova is marking World Population Day today, which aims to draw attention to the urgency and importance of population-related issues. This year's topic is Fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of youth – today and for the future, highlights the importance of creating conditions that enable young people to make free and informed decisions about education, employment, starting a family and raising children.

On this occasion, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection (MLSP) reaffirms its commitment to continue promoting inclusive, people-centred social policies focused on current and future generations.


“The MLSP is implementing a set of measures to help create an environment in which young people have real development opportunities, can start families and build a secure future in the Republic of Moldova. Thus, investments in young families, access to quality services and public policies geared to their needs are essential elements for the sustainable development of society and for addressing demographic challenges,” the institution said.


Through the Programme for Supporting Employment in the First Job, young people receive a monthly allowance of 3,000 lei for a period of 12 months, to facilitate access to their first job and the accumulation of professional experience. Since the launch of the programme, on average, about 260 young people per month have benefited from this support.

In addition, through the National Employment Agency (NEA), measures are being implemented for career guidance, facilitating employment, and developing skills.


“To inform and guide young people in choosing their career path, NEA specialists carry out career guidance activities in educational institutions. In the first six months of the current year, 204 visits were organized, attended by 6,824 pupils and students, who were informed about employment opportunities and available services. At the same time, the NEA organizes job fairs dedicated to jobseekers, including young people,” the MLSP announced.


Special attention is paid to young people who are not in education, employment, or training (NEET). Through the work of NEA mobile teams, in the first half of 2026, 481 NEET young people were identified, representing 23.5% of the total number of inactive persons identified. Their integration is supported, among other things, through projects implemented in partnership with civil society organizations.


“Also, in 2024, the Republic of Moldova piloted, through the NEA, the European Youth Guarantee instrument, designed to facilitate the transition of young people into employment, education, or training. The MLSP will continue to develop this mechanism through the National Employment Programme for the period 2027–2030, which is currently being drafted,” the MLSP underlined.


The development of early childhood care and education services also plays an important role in supporting young families. Through the national programme “Public Nursery Services – Employed Parents, Children in Nurseries,” third edition, 155 new nursery groups will be created or rehabilitated, benefiting over 3,100 children. The investments made will support approximately 6,000 parents, enabling them to return to or remain active in the labour market and to continue their professional development.

Starting from 1 January 2026, the one-off childbirth allowance was increased to 21,866 lei, strengthening the financial support provided to families. In 2025, 33,411 children benefited from this benefit. Likewise, the childcare allowance can be requested under three compensation options: 90% for 12 months; 60% followed by 30% until the child turns 2; or 30% for the entire period until the child turns 3.


“The monthly allowance for caring for a child under 2 years of age, in the amount of 1,000 lei, granted regardless of whether parents are insured or not, continues to provide important support to families. In 2025, 64,696 children benefited from this allowance, and 33,221 children benefited from the monthly allowance for raising a child up to the age of 3. To encourage fathers’ involvement in childcare and to promote work–life balance, starting from 1 July 2025, the duration of paternity leave was extended to 15 calendar days. It can be requested within the first 12 months after the child’s birth or the approval of adoption, either in full or in three instalments of 5 calendar days each. In 2025, 4,388 fathers benefited from this right,” the MLSP emphasized.


World Population Day was established by the United Nations in 1989. This day promotes each person’s right to health, gender equality, access to education, the protection of the rights of young people and adolescents, and awareness of the impact of demographic changes on economic and social development.