News & press releases

Attend a financial education training and become an ambassador in the National Financial Education Campaign in your community!

Tuesday, 13 February 2024

The National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with support from the USAID MISRA Programme, are selecting and training students and upper-secondary pupils to become financial education ambassadors. Applications close on 26 February 2024, and the training takes place in Chișinău in early March.

Financial literacy campaign

Opportunity for Young Entrepreneurs: Tulip Business Incubator

Friday, 09 February 2024

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the support of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Chișinău, has launched “Tulip Business Incubator”, a support programme for young entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova. It is open to people aged up to 35 who want to start a business or expand an existing one.

Tulip Business Incubator – Support program for young entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova

Energy consumption in about 5,000 public institutions monitored through the EMIS energy management information system

Friday, 15 December 2023

The energy and water consumption of about 5,000 public institutions in Moldova is now monitored through EMIS, an energy management information system. It was launched with UNDP and GEF support and extended nationwide by Green City Lab Moldova, together with the Ministry of Energy, Expert-Grup and the Embassy of the Netherlands.

State of the Country Report 2023: “Moldova’s Economy in the Context of European Integration: Solutions to Boost Economic Development, Inclusion and Resilience”

Wednesday, 13 December 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, launched the State of the Country Report 2023 on 12 December at the 11th International Annual Conference MACRO 2023. The report concludes that Moldova stands at a historic turning point after the European Commission recommended opening accession negotiations.

EaP CSF Steering Committee Statement calls on the European Council to follow through on the European Commission’s recommendations to open negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova and to grant EU candidate status to Georgia

Thursday, 07 December 2023

The EaP CSF Steering Committee welcomes the European Commission’s adoption of the 2023 Enlargement package to recommend the opening of negotiations with Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, and the granting of EU candidate status to Georgia.

EUROSFAT 2023: European Parliamentary Groups Support Moldova’s Accession to the European Union

Thursday, 30 November 2023

Moldova’s European aspirations will continue to be supported by the European parliamentary groups and the speed of our country’s accession to the EU depends on the pace of the reforms that will be carried out in the future. Today, Moldova’s European course is guaranteed, and at this pace, in a few years our country will be ready to join the big European family. These are the main conclusions of the largest Romanian forum on European affairs – EUROSFAT, which was held for the first time on 28 November in Chişinău

Moldova’s Challenges and Priorities in Justice, Social and Economic Areas Following the European Commission’s Recommendation to Open EU Accession Negotiations, Discussed with Media Representatives

Tuesday, 14 November 2023

On 13 November, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, together with IPRE, the Institutum Virtutes Civilis and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, held a press club with journalists on the next steps and reform priorities in justice, the economy and social policy after the European Commission recommended opening EU accession negotiations with Moldova.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Eurosfat 2023: European Union and new horizons - Republic of Moldova

Tuesday, 14 November 2023

Romania's largest European business forum - EUROSFAT 2023 - arrives for the first time in the Republic of Moldova.After several successful editions of the event, held in Bucharest and Timisoara, the event crosses the Prut, where it will bring together European, Romanian, Moldovan officials together with the private sector, academia and civil society, to identify #NewHorizons for our country's accession to the EU.

The members of the National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum, the RM-EU Platform and the Domestic Advisory Group on Trade and Sustainable Development benefited from a series of trainings dedicated to institutional growth and development

Monday, 06 November 2023

In October – November, 5 training sessions were held dedicated to the growth and development of the capacities of the members of the National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum, the RM-EU Platform and the Domestic Advisory Group on Trade and Sustainable Development.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

The Largest Financial Education Campaign in the Republic of Moldova Launched with USAID Support

Tuesday, 31 October 2023

On International Savings Day, 31 October, the National Bank of Moldova launched the largest financial education campaign in the country's history, in partnership with the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and with support from the USAID programme MISRA. Priorities and the results of a financial literacy survey were presented at a public event.

Financial literacy campaign

Reform of state-owned enterprises and the Public Property Agency: immediate needs

Thursday, 05 October 2023

On 5 October 2023, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” presented its analysis of the functional alignment of the organisational structure of the Public Property Agency (APP) at a round table. Representatives of specialised organisations, state institutions and experts discussed reform of the agency and of state-owned enterprises.

Strengthening the competitiveness of state-owned enterprises by bolstering corporate governance

Fifteen civil society organisations have strengthened their knowledge in monitoring and analysing budget expenses at both local and central levels

Wednesday, 20 September 2023

From July to September 2023, these 15 civil society organisations, beneficiaries of the "Civil Society for European Integration" project, participated in five thematic training sessions related to the monitoring and analysis of budget expenses. The training sessions aimed at enhancing the organisations’ capacities to support and promote the alignment of budgetary priorities with the Europeanisation agenda at the national and local levels, as well as at increasing their involvement in the decision-making.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Twelfth meeting of the Civil Society Platform European Union - Republic of Moldova: progress, commitments, recommendations for launching EU accession negotiations by the end of the year

Friday, 01 September 2023

On September 1, 2023, the twelfth meeting of the Civil Society Platform European Union - Republic of Moldova was held in Chișinău. During the Platform's meeting was discussed and evaluated the progress Moldova made in fulfilling the 9 recommendations of the European Commission for opening the accession negotiations to the EU. The importance of joint efforts of all stakeholders was reiterated in order to fulfil the commitments undertaken in the field of justice and the fight against corruption, as well as to advance the implementation of all chapters of the Association Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Moldova.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

The Fourth Edition of the “Make Sense of Money” Financial Education Camp Has Ended

Thursday, 10 August 2023

The fourth edition of the financial education camp “Dă sens banilor” (“Make Sense of Money”), organised by the National Bank of Moldova and Expert-Grup, took place on 7–10 August 2023. It brought together more than 80 participants from various localities across the Republic of Moldova.

Financial Education Camp, 4th Edition: Registration Is Now Open!

Wednesday, 02 August 2023

The National Bank of Moldova, in partnership with the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, is holding the fourth edition of its Financial Education Camp on 7-10 August 2023. The online event, run under the “Dă sens banilor” financial education project, is open to adults aged 18 and over.

#MoldovaEUCandidateCheck – 2nd Shadow Report on the implementation of Moldova’s commitments for opening EU accession negotiations

Thursday, 20 July 2023

The Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), the Independent Think Tank "Expert-Grup" and the Legal Resources Centre from Moldova (LRCM), within the #ThinkTanks4EUMembership initiative and in cooperation with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation in the Republic of Moldova, presented on Thursday, July 20, 2023, during the press conference, the second Shadow Report on the implementation of the Moldova’s Action Plan for the implementation of the 9 steps of the European Commission in the context of Moldova’s EU membership application.

Expert-Grup Awarded by the European Union for Implementing the Project “Inform, Empower and Act! Civil Society for Better Budget Governance in Moldova” (My Budget)

Friday, 09 June 2023

On 7 June 2023, at the fourth Civil Society Gala 2022, organised by the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova, Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” received the “Stronger Governance” Award for its “My Budget” project, co-financed by the European Union and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The prospects of issuing Eurobonds by the Republic of Moldova, a topic of discussion in the press club dedicated to the financial instrument

Wednesday, 07 June 2023

Perspectivele emiterii de euroobligațiuni de către Republica Moldova și aspectele principale ce țin de instrumentul financiar Eurobond și ratingul de țară, au constituit subiectul de discuție a clubului de presă desfășurat miercuri, 6 iunie 2023,

Energy and water consumption of over 3,000 public institutions to be monitored through an energy management information system

Wednesday, 17 May 2023

The energy and water consumption of more than 3,000 public institutions in the Republic of Moldova will be monitored through the EMIS energy management information system. The system, tested earlier in 17 institutions in Chișinău, is now being extended nationwide by Green City Lab Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”.

The European Union supports Civil Society in promoting the Europeanization agenda

Tuesday, 16 May 2023

The Independent Think-Tank Expert-Grup as the main partner, in partnership with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), the Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC) and the "Friedrich Ebert" Foundation organized on Monday, May 15, 2023, the launch event of the project "Civil Society for European Integration", financed by the European Union and co-financed by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

10 of the homeowners' associations in the “Primele Rândunele” project implemented by Expert-Grup have received free energy audit reports for the apartment blocks they manage

Friday, 12 May 2023

Ten of the homeowners' associations taking part in the “Primele Rândunele” project, implemented by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, have received free energy audit reports for the apartment blocks they manage. Residents can now see which energy efficiency measures their building needs, along with estimated costs.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Concept for Reforming the National Employment Agency Discussed with Media Representatives at a Press Club

Thursday, 04 May 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with the Soros Foundation Moldova, held a press club on the concept of reforming the National Employment Agency (ANOFM). State Secretary Felicia Bechtoldt, Stas Madan of “Expert-Grup” and ministry official Anna Gherganova took part.

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection Presented the Concept for Reforming the National Employment Agency

Wednesday, 03 May 2023

On 2 May 2023, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with the Soros Foundation Moldova, held a public event presenting the concept for reforming the National Employment Agency (ANOFM), focused on a more competitive and innovative labour market.

Moldova's Economy between the Echo of War and Resilience: Forecasts for 2023-2024

Thursday, 27 April 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” launched the 24th edition of its MEGA (Moldova Economic Growth Analysis) publication on 27 April 2023 at a press conference. It forecasts that Moldova's economy will recover in 2023 and regain the decline recorded in 2022, despite multiple crises and persistent regional risks.

#MoldovaEUCandidateCheck - First Shadow Report on the implementation of Moldova’s commitments for opening the accession negotiations with the EU

Thursday, 13 April 2023

The #MoldovaEUCandidateCheck report reflects the main findings regarding the progress, constraints, and priorities recommended for each of the 9 commitments undertaken by the Republic of Moldova. The report is the result of an independent monitoring and evaluation exercise of the implementation of the Action Plan, adopted by the National Committee for European Integration, in the period from 1 July 2022 to 31 March 2023 and is based on a methodology focused on quantitative and qualitative assessment.

Members of the EU-Moldova Civil Society Platform discussed at Bruxelles the developments, challenges and priorities of the Republic of Moldova for opening the accession negotiations with the European Union

Wednesday, 05 April 2023

On 29-31 March this year, Expert-Grup Independent Think-Tank, the Institute for European Policy and Reform (IPRE) and Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC) participated in a series of advocacy visits in Bruxelles, carried out under the ‘Civil Society for European Integration’ project, financed by the European Union and co-financed by ‘Friedrich Ebert’ Foundation. The purpose of the meetings with EU officials was to discuss the main developments, challenges and priorities for the implementation of the nine recommendations of the European Commission to launch accession negotiations with the European Union of the Republic of Moldova.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

“Fundamentals of Energy Efficiency in Apartment Buildings” Discussed at the Third Training Session of the “Early Movers” Project

Thursday, 23 March 2023

The third training session under the “Early Movers” project, dedicated to homeowners’ associations, focused on the fundamentals of energy efficiency in apartment buildings. The seminar was led by two experts from Ukraine, Serhii Kazaku and Oleg Pokidko, who presented practical examples from their country.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

We continue to train the Homeowners' Associations enrolled in the “Early Movers” project on good practices and legislative updates on condominium management

Friday, 10 March 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” is continuing to train the homeowners' associations enrolled in its “First Swallows” project in Moldova. This week's session covered good practices and recent legislative updates on managing condominiums, including a new regulation on selecting a condominium manager.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Consumer protection is indispensable for healthy competition and a functional, sound market economy

Wednesday, 01 March 2023

On 28 February 2023, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held a press club titled “It is time to bring consumer protection out of anonymity!”. It was organised with the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS), supported by the Soros Foundation Moldova, under the initiative “Socially responsible management of external funding”.

10 Homeowners' Associations to Receive Energy Audits of Their Apartment Buildings

Tuesday, 21 February 2023

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has concluded its competition to select energy audit specialists. The winning company will assess the condition of 10 apartment buildings for homeowners' associations taking part in the “Primele Rândunele” (First Swallows) pilot project in Moldova, with Expert-Grup financing the auditors' work in full.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Expert-Grup organized a new training for Tenant Associations registered in the ”Early Movers” project

Monday, 20 February 2023

Expert Grup organized a new training for Tenant Associations registered in the "First Movers" project, wiht the topic "Reorganization of Associations in the context of the entry into force of the new condominium law".

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Reform of the State-Owned Enterprise Sector: Proposals and Prospects for Improving the Performance of State-Owned Companies

Tuesday, 14 February 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with Soros Foundation Moldova and with support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED), held the round table “How can we reform the state-owned enterprise sector?” on Tuesday, 14 February, discussing the state property strategy and the role of supervisory boards.

Strengthening the Monitoring Capacity of Civil Society in Moldova

Access to Information on Foreign Assistance Received, Related Challenges and Measures to Overcome Them

Monday, 30 January 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS) and with support from the Soros Foundation Moldova, held the press club “Access to Information on Foreign Assistance” on Thursday, 26 January, discussing public access to such information in the Republic of Moldova.

Reform of the State Labour Inspectorate and Its Role in Combating Undeclared and Underdeclared Work

Friday, 20 January 2023

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Institute for Strategic Initiatives (IPIS) and with support from the Soros Foundation Moldova, held a press club on Thursday, 19 January. It discussed informal employment, underdeclared work in Moldova and why reforming the State Labour Inspectorate matters.

The Demographic Profile of Chișinău Municipality: An Important Tool for Local Authorities to Improve People’s Quality of Life

Thursday, 08 December 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with UNFPA Moldova, launched the study “Demographic Profile of Chișinău Municipality” at a public debate on Wednesday, 7 December 2022. The study aims to help local authorities design evidence-based policies that improve the quality of life of the city’s residents, who make up 26% of the country’s population.

Public policies adapted to the needs of Ialoveni district – a decisive tool for unlocking the region’s economic potential

Tuesday, 06 December 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with UNFPA Moldova, presented the study “Demographic Profile of Ialoveni District” at a public debate hosted by the Ialoveni District Council. The study examines the district’s demographic and socio-economic situation and proposes policy recommendations tailored to local needs.

Approximately 40 tenant associations in the country were trained on the possibilities of obtaining financing within the ”Early Movers” project

Monday, 05 December 2022

As part of the "Early Movers" project, the first trainings were started with the administrators of Tenant Associations from the 7 cities in the country, on improving the energy efficiency of buildings.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Evidence-Based Public Policies: A Key Factor in the Socio-Economic Development of the Bălți Municipality Region

Wednesday, 30 November 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with UNFPA Moldova, launched the study “Demographic Profile of the Municipality of Bălți” at a public debate hosted by the Bălți City Hall. The analysis examines demographic change in Moldova’s second-largest city and proposes policies to keep residents in the region.

We Go “Legit”! Government Solutions for Encouraging the Shift to Legal Work Discussed at a Dedicated Conference

Friday, 04 November 2022

The international conference “Moldova Goes Legit: Solutions for Encouraging the Transition to Legal Work” discussed the Government's policies against undeclared employment. President Maia Sandu delivered the opening speech. The event was organised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with Soros Foundation Moldova.

Announcement for homeowners' associations: financial and technical support project for energy efficiency investments in buildings, “First Swallows”

Thursday, 20 October 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development and with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova, has launched a competition for homeowners' associations under the “First Swallows” pilot project, with applications open until 6 November 2022.

Closing Event of the Second Edition of the “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance” Professional Training Course

Friday, 07 October 2022

On 5 October 2022, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held the closing event of the second edition of its professional training course “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance”, which ran from May to July 2022. Twenty-six graduates of the second cohort received their diplomas.

Expert-Grup, with the support of the EVA project, strengthened local partnerships to promote gender-sensitive policies and budgeting

Tuesday, 30 August 2022

Under the EVA project, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” formed joint teams with four local NGOs from Cahul and Ungheni to identify the most pressing local needs in promoting gender equality. The exercise produced four monitoring reports covering local development, healthcare access, women's participation in decision-making and education budgeting.

Strengthened Gender Action in Cahul and Ungheni districts

We Have Successfully Completed the Third Edition of the “Dă sens banilor” Financial Education Camp

Thursday, 18 August 2022

The third edition of the “Dă sens banilor” financial education camp took place online from 15 to 18 August 2022. It brought together more than 70 participants from different localities across the Republic of Moldova, regardless of age, occupation or place of residence.

VIDEO: Local Government Bonds – Success Models and Lessons Learned

Thursday, 11 August 2022

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has released a video on the success models and lessons learned from the first municipal bond issues in the Republic of Moldova. The material was produced under a project on local government bonds, implemented in 2020-2022 with Dutch financial support.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Financial Literacy Camp “Give Meaning to Money”: Registration Is Open

Friday, 05 August 2022

Registration has opened for the third edition of the financial literacy camp “Give Meaning to Money”, initiated by the National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”. The online event will take place on 15-18 August and is aimed at people who want to learn more about financial concepts.

Expert Grup in partnership with MIRD with the support of the Dutch Government will contribute to strengthening energy security, increasing energy efficiency and stimulating the development of renewable sources in Moldova

Friday, 05 August 2022

On August 3, 2022, during a meeting hosted by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the technical assistance project for strengthening energy security in the Republic of Moldova was launched.

”Early movers” - Technical assistance for increasing energy efficiency and security in Moldova

Launch of the study “Corruption Risks in State Controls and Entrepreneurial Activity”

Thursday, 28 July 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has launched a study titled “Corruption Risks in State Controls and Entrepreneurial Activity”, produced with the support of the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). Officials, including representatives of the National Anticorruption Centre and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, attended the launch event in Moldova.

Strengthening the Monitoring Capacity of Civil Society in Moldova

Launch of the study “Corruption risks in customs administration: how the media and civil society can monitor them”

Thursday, 21 July 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” launched its study on corruption risks in customs administration on 21 July 2022 at a roundtable held with support from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The study examines how the media and civil society can monitor these risks in the Republic of Moldova.

Launch of the Study “The State-Owned Enterprise Sector: Corruption Risks and Necessary Reforms”

Thursday, 14 July 2022

On 14 July 2022, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” launched its study “The State-Owned Enterprise Sector: Corruption Risks and Necessary Reforms” at a roundtable supported by NED. The study identifies integrity obstacles at state and enterprise level that fuel corruption risks in Moldova's state-owned companies.

Strengthening the Monitoring Capacity of Civil Society in Moldova

Moldova Scored 65 out of 100 in the Global Budget Transparency Ranking

Wednesday, 01 June 2022

Moldova improved public access to budget information, according to the Open Budget Survey 2021. The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” presented the results at a dedicated conference, attended by representatives of the Ministry of Finance, the EU Delegation, the IMF Office in Moldova and the Court of Accounts.

Demographic Study: Population ageing in the Republic of Moldova can be transformed into an opportunity for economic growth

Tuesday, 31 May 2022

Women in the Republic of Moldova earn less than they consume during their entire life, while the income of men exceeds the consumption only between 24 and 53 years of age. At the same time, the demographic shift towards an ageing population in the Republic of Moldova can offer opportunities for the country’s economic growth thanks to people’s life-time savings, made to cover their consumption when growing older. These are the main findings of the study ‘Analysis of the Demographic Dividends of the Republic of Moldova’, launched on Tuesday, 31 May 2022, during a public debate of the ‘Expert Grup’ Independent Think-Tank in partnership with UN Population Fund (UNFPA Moldova).

Soros Foundation Moldova invests USD 500,000 in developing state-owned enterprises; the project will be implemented by Expert-Grup in partnership with the Public Property Agency

Monday, 18 April 2022

The Soros Foundation Moldova, the Public Property Agency and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” have signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to develop the state-owned enterprise sector in the Republic of Moldova. The memorandum was signed on 18 April 2022 and backed by an investment of over half a million dollars.

Technical assistance to the SOEs’ governance reform

Launch of the New Edition of the Professional Training Course “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance”

Friday, 01 April 2022

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova and the National Anti-Corruption Centre, announced the launch of a new edition of the professional training course “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance” at a conference attended by public officials and graduates of the previous edition.

Anticorruption Certification Academic Course in Moldova

Joint Statement of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society National Platforms of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia on the European Union Membership Applications of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia

Friday, 11 March 2022

The Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum National Platforms of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia have issued a joint statement condemning Russia's aggression against Ukraine. They express solidarity with Ukraine and welcome the three countries' applications for European Union membership, calling for swift candidate status for all three.

OPEN LETTER / Response to Putin's Invasion of Ukraine

Wednesday, 09 March 2022

Article available in English.

Maib launches public offering of municipal bonds issued by Chișinău City Hall

Wednesday, 02 March 2022

Maib has announced the launch of a public offering of municipal bonds issued by the Chișinău City Hall, worth MDL 65 million in total. The city intends to invest the proceeds in modernising the capital's trolleybus fleet, so that residents have access to quality public transport services.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Launch of the #StopWar Civic Information and Communication Campaign

Monday, 28 February 2022

The National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum has set up an initiative group to design and run a nationwide civic information and communication campaign in Moldova. The campaign, provisionally called #StopWar, will be carried out during the state of emergency.

Declaration Condemning Russia’s Unprovoked Aggression against Ukraine

Thursday, 24 February 2022

The National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum in the Republic of Moldova, which brings together 100 member organisations, has issued a declaration firmly condemning Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine, launched also from Belarusian territory, and calling for an immediate end to military operations.

Postponement – MACRO 2022 Conference

Thursday, 24 February 2022

Because of the military situation in Ukraine, the MACRO 2022 Conference, which was scheduled to take place today, 24 February, has been postponed. The organisers have announced the decision on the website of the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and say they will provide updates on the new date.

First day of MACRO Conference 2022: Moldova's development priorities on the agenda of the country's leadership and international experts

Wednesday, 23 February 2022

Global and regional trends that will shape the future global environment and their impact on a new model of sustainable economic growth and development of the Republic of Moldova are the main topics presented during the first day of the MACRO 2022 Annual International Conference, held on February 23 in Chisinau. The first day of the event was attended by officials, European dignitaries, international and local experts, researchers and professors from abroad, who discussed the main challenges and opportunities arising from global trends. The conference was inaugurated with the speech of the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu.

European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Alongside Moldova's Leadership and International Experts, Invited to MACRO 2022

Tuesday, 22 February 2022

The 10th International Annual Conference MACRO 2022 will bring together Moldova's leadership, senior European officials, international and local experts, researchers and professors in Chișinău on 23 and 24 February. The event is titled “Republic of Moldova: strengthening internal resilience in a transforming global environment”.

The 10th Annual International Conference MACRO 2022 to Be Held in Chișinău

Monday, 21 February 2022

The 10th edition of the Annual International Conference MACRO 2022 will take place in Chișinău on 23 and 24 February, under the theme “Republic of Moldova: strengthening domestic resilience in a transforming global environment”. It will bring together officials, experts, policy analysts, private-sector representatives and guests from Moldova and abroad.

2022 year comes with several major challenges for the population, companies and the public finance system

Monday, 31 January 2022

In 2021, the Republic of Moldova recorded the highest rate of economic growth in the last three decades: according to our estimates, the Gross Domestic Product increased by about 9.8%. However, this impressive figure offers no reason for over-optimism, as in 2022 the growth rate will be much more modest. The main economic and budgetary trends in 2021 and the forecast for 2022 can be found in the publication MEGA 23rd edition ((Moldovan Economic Growth Analysis)) entitled "Economy in 2022: from recovery to stagflation?" developed by the Independent Think Tank "Expert-Grup" launched today during the MEGA #23 conference "Economy and public finances in 2022: preparing the stage for local government reform."

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

‘My Budget’ Project Results: Residents from 25 settlements for the first time had participated in the budgeting for local development projects worth millions of MDL

Wednesday, 26 January 2022

Thanks to ‘My Budget’ project, 135 participatory budgeting projects were carried out in 25 localities – these are among the main results of the ‘Inform, Empower and Act! Civil Society for Better Budgetary Governance in Moldova’ project. They were presented at the summing-up event organised on 25 January 2022 by ‘Expert-Grup’ Independent Think Tank, in partnership with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) and the Eastern Europe Studies Centre (EESC, Lithuania), with the financial support of the European Union and Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The Republic of Moldova at 30 years of independence – fundamental failures of the past and development prospects for the next decade

Monday, 22 November 2021

Thirty years after gaining its independence, the Republic of Moldova remains a fractured state, marked by a series of chronic vulnerabilities and fundamental failures committed by governments over the past three decades. During this period, the Republic of Moldova fell short of its potential as a country, a state or even a nation. As a result, the country is struggling with the new development challenges. These are some of the conclusions of the State of the Country Report 2021 (SCR): ‘The Republic of Moldova at 30 years of independence’, developed by ‘Expert-Grup’ Independent Think-Tank in partnership with ‘Friedrich Ebert’ Foundation in Moldova and launched on 23 November during the 2021 MACRO Annual International Conference.

Although political clientelism is evident in the distribution of public financial resources, the phenomenon tends to diminish

Tuesday, 16 November 2021

A study on political clientelism in the management of public funds, presented online on 16 November by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” with its partners, finds that budget allocations from central to local level are still influenced by political affiliation, although the practice is weakening.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The second Annual Forum for Participatory Budgeting: Opportunities and challenges related to ensuring participatory budgeting at the local level

Monday, 11 October 2021

The Independent Think-Tank ”Expert-Grup” in cooperation with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) organised on 8 October 2021 the second Annual Forum for Participatory Budgeting under the project ‘Inform, Empower and Act. Civil Society for Good Budgetary Governance in Moldova’ co-funded by the European Union and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The second edition of the “Dă sens banilor” Financial Education Camp reached over 80 localities in the Republic of Moldova

Thursday, 19 August 2021

The second edition of the “Dă sens banilor” Financial Education Camp, organised by the National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” on 9-13 August 2021, brought together hundreds of participants from over 80 localities in the Republic of Moldova. The five-day event was held online, giving people of different ages, occupations and places of residence equal chances to take part.

Invest in municipal bonds issued by the Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga city halls

Thursday, 05 August 2021

The city halls of Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga have carried out the first municipal bond issues in the Republic of Moldova, aiming to raise funds for two local infrastructure projects. The issues, intermediated by Victoriabank, were open for subscription from 5 August 2021 and have since closed early after full subscription.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Succesful debut on the Moldovan capital market: Public offers of bonds, launched by Singera and Ceadir-Lunga town halls, closed in advance

Thursday, 05 August 2021

The municipal bond issues launched by the City Hall of Singera and the City Hall of Ceadir-Lunga on August 5, 2021 can be considered a successful debut on the capital market of the Republic of Moldova. With the support of Victoriabank and the Independent Think-Tank "Expert-Grup" were fully subscribed the bonds issued in less than a week from the launch of the Public Offer.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga Town Halls – the First Local Authorities in Moldova to Launch Municipal Bond Issues

Wednesday, 04 August 2021

The town halls of Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga have launched the first municipal bond issues by local public authorities in the Republic of Moldova. The public offers, supported by Victoriabank, are part of a project implemented by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” with funding from the Dutch Embassy.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Join the 2nd Edition of the “Dă sens banilor” Financial Education Camp

Tuesday, 27 July 2021

The National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” are organising the second edition of the financial education camp “Dă sens banilor”. The camp will take place online from 9 to 13 August 2021, and registration is open to participants aged over 16.

Are you a master's student or a young professional who wants to help fight corruption? Join the “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance Academic Course”

Tuesday, 27 July 2021

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, together with the National Anticorruption Centre (CNA) and the Academy of Economic Studies (ASEM), is launching the second edition of its “Anti-Corruption and Good Governance Academic Course”. It is open to master's students and young professionals, with training running from September to December 2021.

Anticorruption Certification Academic Course in Moldova

Electoral Promises of Candidates in the Snap Parliamentary Elections: Abundant Populism and Lack of Feasibility

Thursday, 01 July 2021

An analysis by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, examined the socio-economic programmes and promises of the 22 candidates in Moldova's snap parliamentary elections of 11 July 2021. It concludes that many pledges are populist and financially unfeasible.

The Role of Public Policies and Authorities' Actions in Reducing Political Clientelism

Wednesday, 30 June 2021

A study on political clientelism and public investment, presented online on 29 June by Expert-Grup and its partners, finds that the allocation of central budget funds to local authorities in Moldova's 2021 state budget is linked to political affiliation, especially for capital expenditure transfers.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The Western Balkans serve as a precious example for the Rep. of Moldova and the other two associated countries in their path of European integration

Monday, 31 May 2021

The best time to bring the Republic of Moldova on its way to European integration is now. This trial new momentum has to be accompanied by a set of implemented reforms and a firm position of the Moldovan authorities looking to the European country’s vector.

Understanding the EU’s Association Agreements, and Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas (DCFTAs) with Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia

Moldova's degree of accountability in managing COVID-19 pandemic funds is low

Tuesday, 25 May 2021

The way Moldova's authorities managed funds allocated to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic shows low accountability and transparency, according to the report “Managing COVID-19 Funds”, produced under the international Open Budget Survey research programme. The study assessed 120 countries using 26 indicators of transparency, oversight and public participation.

The first municipal bond issues in Moldova: the municipalities of Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga contract a financial intermediary

Friday, 30 April 2021

The town hall of Sîngera and the municipality of Ceadîr-Lunga have taken another step towards Moldova's first municipal bond issues. Through an open competition they selected BC “Victoriabank” SA as financial intermediary and are now contracting it, with support from Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in a project funded by the Netherlands Embassy.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Waste management development in Moldova lags 40 years behind the EU. How it can be improved by implementing EPR mechanisms

Tuesday, 30 March 2021

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the National Environmental Centre, with Swedish support, have produced a study on introducing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) mechanisms in Moldova. It aims to improve waste recycling in a country where waste management is still inadequate and the relevant legal provisions cannot yet be applied in practice.

What Is the Impact of Women's Economic Empowerment Programmes Implemented in Moldova, and How Can Their Effectiveness Be Improved

Thursday, 25 March 2021

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the Women's Law Centre, with financial support from the Embassy of Sweden in Moldova, launched a study evaluating the impact of women's economic empowerment support programmes. The study was presented at a public online event and offers recommendations for improving the programmes.

Institutional Support for Organization Development

Public Lessons on “Make Sense of Money” with Financial Education Ambassadors

Tuesday, 23 March 2021

Pupils and students from six districts and municipalities of Moldova will take part in online public lessons on how to make sense of money, delivered over the coming days by eight financial education ambassadors. The project is run by the National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”.

The “Expert-Grup” Office Will Be Closed from 17 March to 17 April 2021

Thursday, 18 March 2021

Because of the current situation in the country regarding the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the office of the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” in Chișinău will be closed from 17 March to 17 April 2021. The organisation's team will work remotely and remain fully available online during this period.

Gender stereotypes and unequal distribution of household and child care responsibilities have a major impact on women's and men's income

Wednesday, 03 March 2021

The lack of a work-life balance, childcare and household responsibilities, which are unfairly shared between women and men, has economic implications for the life cycle. Throughout life, the average consumption of women (public and private) on average is the same as for men, but their income from work is considerably lower. At the same time, women's life expectancy is more than eight years longer than men's, so when they reach retirement age, they are at increased risk of poverty.

Declaration of the National Platform on the Need for Additional Measures to Support SMEs in the COVID-19 Crisis

Thursday, 25 February 2021

Member organisations of the Moldovan National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum have issued a declaration calling for additional support for small and medium-sized enterprises. They argue that the COVID-19 pandemic and natural risk factors in 2020 caused the biggest shock to Moldova's economy in two decades.

State support for firms in Moldova during the pandemic crisis is the lowest in the region

Monday, 22 February 2021

Companies in the Republic of Moldova received the least state support during the pandemic crisis compared with regional countries such as Romania, Poland, Georgia and Russia. This is shown by a World Bank survey cited in the 22nd edition of the MEGA Publication by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

The main economic forecasts for 2021 - a year marked by the pandemic extension and political instability

Wednesday, 17 February 2021

Pandemic developments and political instability are the main economic risks in 2021. On the one hand, we can expect a relatively high economic growth (+5,4%), but on the other hand, the economy will be relaunched without investments and with a high budgetary deficit. This conclusions and forecasts have been made by the authors of MEGA Publication, 22nd edition, for the 1st quarter, of 2021.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

Invitation to the webinar “The Transition from Trump to Biden through the Eyes of Eastern Europe (and the European Union)”

Wednesday, 20 January 2021

The CEPS project “3 DCFTAs”, together with the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum, invites the public to a webinar on 27 January 2021 on the transition from Trump to Biden, as seen from Eastern Europe and the European Union. It will be held on Zoom.

PUBLIC STATEMENT of the National Platform on the Degradation of the Legislative Process and Governance in the Republic of Moldova

Monday, 21 December 2020

The National Civil Society Platform of the Eastern Partnership condemns what it calls an unprecedented decline in the quality of governance in the Republic of Moldova. It blames the parliamentary majority of the Socialists, the Șor Party and the “For Moldova” group for breaching legal procedures when adopting laws on 3 and 16 December 2020.

Ten mayoralties from the Republic of Moldova have participated in the Expert-Grup's training on municipal bonds

Friday, 18 December 2020

Representatives of ten mayoralties from the Republic of Moldova have participated in online training on municipal bonds emission organized by "Expert-Grup" Independent Think-Tank in the frame of the project "Local Government Bonds - as a measure to foster the local autonomy", funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Chisinau.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

The COVID-19 pandemic also hits state-owned companies: many face additional risks of falling revenues and rising debt

Friday, 11 December 2020

A study by Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” economists Dumitru Pîntea and Vadim Gumene, supported by Soros Foundation Moldova, finds that the COVID-19 crisis has hit Moldova's state-owned companies hard. Many report growing risks to forecast revenues and to meeting obligations towards the state and creditors, according to a survey of the companies.

The Role of State-Owned Companies in the National Economy and the Sectors Where They Are Most Present

Thursday, 10 December 2020

State-owned companies and joint-stock companies with a majority state stake play a significant role in Moldova's economy. They employ about 6.2% of all employees (over 34,000), according to a study by Stas Madan of the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, supported by Soros Foundation Moldova and presented at an online event.

Fostering the corporate governance in the state owned enterprises

Fifth round of Youth Essay Prize Competition: winners

Wednesday, 09 December 2020

The winners of the fifth Youth Essay Prize competition have been announced. The contest was open to citizens of Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine under 30, with no lower age limit, and asked for English-language essays of up to 3,000 words on European relevance or their country's European aspirations.

How Effective Is the Use of Budgetary and Fiscal Instruments for Environmental Protection in the Republic of Moldova

Tuesday, 08 December 2020

On 8 December, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, the Aarhus Centre “EcoContact” and the National Environmental Centre launched two studies in Chișinău, with Swedish financial support. They examine how environmental permit fees are calculated and how fiscal and budgetary instruments are applied to environmental problems in the Republic of Moldova.

Energy integration in the EU via interconnections: Moldova and the EaP

Wednesday, 02 December 2020

Denis Cenusa, Research Assistant at the Institut für Politikwiesenschaft, Justus-Liebig Universität and Associated Expert at the Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, held the webinar “Energy integration in the EU via interconnections: Moldova and the EaP” on 2 December. It is one of six webinars in an online course for civil society organisations.

First Annual Forum for Participatory Budgeting: Opportunities and Priorities for Better Budget Efficiency and Transparency at Central and Local Level

Friday, 27 November 2020

The Independent Think-Tank "Expert-Grup" in cooperation with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) organized, on Friday, November 27, 2020, the First Annual Forum on Participatory Budgeting held within the project "Inform, empower and act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in the Republic Moldova ”, co-financed by the European Union and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation.

Inform, Empower, Act! Civil Society for good budgetary governance in Moldova

Competition: “Expert-Grup” Selects Three Town Halls to Receive Support in Issuing Municipal Bonds

Friday, 13 November 2020

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has announced a competition to select three town halls in Moldova that will receive training and assistance in issuing municipal bonds for investment projects of community importance. Interested municipalities must submit a letter of interest by 27 November 2020.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

How local authorities can obtain financial resources for development projects by issuing municipal bonds

Thursday, 12 November 2020

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” presented online a study on municipal bonds as a tool for developing local communities in the Republic of Moldova. The study was prepared under a project supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and aims to help local authorities finance investment projects.

Local Government Bonds – as a measure to foster the local autonomy

Invitation to the event: Launch of the study “Municipal Bonds as a Measure of Local Development”

Monday, 09 November 2020

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” invites the public to the online launch of its study “Municipal Bonds as a Measure of Local Development”, produced with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Republic of Moldova. The event takes place on 12 November 2020 at 14.00 on Zoom.

Press Release: “Winning or Losing? Major Environmental Problems Caused by Mineral Resource Extraction in the Republic of Moldova”

Thursday, 05 November 2020

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and Working Group No. 3 of the National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum held a press conference on the environmental impact of mining in the Republic of Moldova. The event was supported by the Soros Foundation Moldova.

Invitation to press conference: “Do we win or lose? Major environmental problems caused by mineral resource extraction in the Republic of Moldova”

Wednesday, 04 November 2020

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and Working Group No. 3 of the National Platform of the Eastern Partnership Civil Society Forum invite media representatives to a press conference on the environmental problems of mineral extraction in the Republic of Moldova. It takes place online on Thursday, 5 November, at 14.00.