Natalia Plugaru Aims for a More Inclusive and Fair European Job Market

Natalia Plugaru, Moldova’s Minister of Labor and Social Protection, is advancing efforts to align the country’s labor market with European Union standards. This initiative aims for Moldovan citizens to work in any EU member state under equal conditions with recognized qualifications. Plugaru made these remarks at the “2025 Enlargement Report: Progress and Future Priorities of the Republic of Moldova” conference held in Chișinău.

Natalia Plugaru’s Vision for an Inclusive European Job Market

The Moldovan government is implementing key reforms to create a more inclusive and equitable European job market. Plugaru stated, “We are ensuring not only for the citizens of Moldova but also for those from the European Union who come and work here.” This bilateral process emphasizes integration and mutual opportunities.

Key Legislative Achievements

• Adoption of the law regarding the free movement and residency of EU citizens and their families in Moldova.
• Enhancing connections to the EURES network, which provides job availability information across EU member states.
• Creation of a national catalog of professions aligned with EU standards.

Through governmental initiatives, Moldova has welcomed the EURES network, facilitating better access to job opportunities for its citizens. Plugaru emphasized the importance of social protection, highlighting agreements with over 20 countries, including Italy. These pacts recognize work periods and ensure access to pensions and social benefits.

Supporting Vulnerable Groups

In the context of labor market reforms, the National Employment Agency has assisted over 20,000 individuals in finding employment. The “Restart” program focuses on modernizing services for vulnerable groups. “We aim for a more inclusive, connected, and fair labor market—an equitable European market,” Plugaru asserted.

Future Strategies for Moldova

Plugaru recognized the significance of the European Commission’s 2025 Enlargement Report, which highlights Moldova’s substantial progress in labor mobility and social policy. Moving forward, she outlined three strategic directions:

• Support for vulnerable families through accessible and quality social services.
• Increasing employment levels, targeting over 100,000 new jobs in four years.
• Expanding childcare services with the creation of 5,000 new spots.

In her conclusion, Plugaru affirmed the government’s commitment to social protection and employment reforms, aiming to build a stronger Moldova aligned with EU values. The European Commission’s assessment, presented on November 4, 2023, recognized Moldova’s rapid progress, stating that it had achieved the highest advancement among candidate countries this year. Vice Premier Cristina Gherasimov noted that Moldova’s readiness levels have significantly improved, marking unprecedented progress toward EU integration.