The Government of Moldova has approved the ratification of the agreement with the EU on participation in the Employment and Social Innovation (EaSI) component of the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+).
As noted by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, for the first time in history, Moldova will have access to this funding and will be able to have more resources to implement reforms. “This agreement represents an important step in strengthening relations between Moldova and the European Union, the main goal of which is to improve employment opportunities and promote social innovation in the Republic of Moldova. By participating in the EaSI program, Moldova will receive financial and technical assistance for the implementation of employment policies, social inclusion and poverty reduction,” noted the Minister of Labor and Social Protection Alexei Buzu. The agreement was signed on May 21, 2024 in Brussels, but will be applied retroactively, from January 1, 2024. Alexei Buzu emphasized that this is an extremely important step for Moldova’s European path and the continuation of the reforms started, especially in the field of employment and labor inspection. Specific funding projects will be selected in cooperation with government agencies, civil society, social and development partners, as well as economic agents and agreed upon in direct negotiations with the European Commission. Representatives of the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection are entitled to participate as observers in the Technical Working Group of the EaSI component within the ESF+ Committee on issues relating to Moldova. Legal entities and individuals from Moldova will also participate in the activities of the Easi ESF+ component under conditions equivalent to those applicable to EU institutions. Minister of Labor and Social Protection Alexei Buzu emphasized the importance of this agreement for the sustainable development of Moldova. “Ratification of this agreement will allow us to access vital European funding to support employment, ensure fair social protection and fight poverty. This is an important step towards European integration,” he said. It is planned that the signed agreement will allow Moldova to actively participate in various European initiatives and projects aimed at supporting reforms in the field of labor and social protection. It will also facilitate the exchange of best practices and experiences with EU members, thereby contributing to the development of effective and sustainable policies. // 27.06.2024 - InfoMarket.
