About the ILO in the Republic of Moldova

For labour markets a long recovery ahead

Moldova achieved important development results over the last two decades, building on an average annual GDP growth of 4.6 per cent before the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Economic growth, high inflows of remittances, and social transfers reduced the relative poverty in pre-pandemic times.

While the economy quickly recovered in 2021 from the strong recession caused by the pandemic, the much-needed recovery of labour markets has been lagging. Employment rates continue to be very low (2021: 41 per cent), lower for women than for men (36 per cent vs 44 per cent). Only 17 per cent of persons with disabilities were employed in 2021. Levels of inactivity are very high, particularly among youth. Close to 30 per cent of the youth in Moldova are neither employed nor in education or training.   Continue reading