News & press releases

Expert-Grup launches monthly press conference series on the state of the economy: growth, inflation and energy challenges at the centre of the first edition

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” has launched a monthly press conference series, “The Economic Reality Analysed by Expert-Grup”, held on the last Tuesday of each month at 10:00. The first edition reviewed the organisation's activity, the Moldova Economic Thermometer and experts' comments on the month's main economic events.

Moldova Economic Thermometer: The Economy Remains on a Growth Path, but Momentum Cooled in July; Q2 GDP Confirmed the Direction Signalled, but Not the Magnitude

Wednesday, 23 September 2026

The Expert-Grup Leading Economic Indicator fell to +0.08 standard deviations in July 2026, after the June peak of +0.23σ. The 3-month moving average, at +0.15σ, keeps the economy in a growth regime, but without acceleration. Official data published by the NBS on 14 September show GDP growth of 0.9% in the second quarter – the acceleration from the first quarter (+0.4%) anticipated by the indicator did occur, but at a smaller magnitude than the calibration suggested.

Expert-Grup launches “Economic Reality Analysed by Expert-Grup”, a monthly press conference series on the state of the economy

Tuesday, 22 September 2026

Starting on 29 September 2026, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” will hold a monthly press conference on the last Tuesday of each month at 10:00. The series, “Economic Reality Analysed by Expert-Grup”, will present the state of the economy to the press and the public at the organisation’s office in Chișinău.

Results of the State Labour Inspectorate and the National Employment Agency, and New Solutions for Boosting the Labour Market Integration of Persons with Disabilities, Discussed at CONSECON

Friday, 11 September 2026

On 10 September, Expert-Grup facilitated a new meeting of Working Group No. 6 “Labour Market Development”, held on the platform of the Economic Council to the Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova. The discussions focused on the results of the State Labour Inspectorate (SLI) and the National Employment Agency (NEA), as well as on facilitating the employment of persons with disabilities.

Assistance for labor market reform

Expert-Grup and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova Launch the “Socio-Economic Encyclopaedia of Moldova”: 35 Years of Independence Analysed Through 35 Events

Wednesday, 26 August 2026

Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova have launched the Socio-Economic Encyclopaedia of Moldova, which reviews 35 years of the country's independence through 35 key events. The publication, co-authored by Expert-Grup's executive director Adrian Lupușor, takes stock of Moldova's economic and social path since 1992.

Invest in Local Development Through Municipal Bonds: Subscription Opens for the Ungheni and Leova Issues

Wednesday, 12 August 2026

The municipality of Ungheni and the town of Leova have launched public offers of municipal bonds worth a total of MDL 19 million, giving interested persons the opportunity to invest in local community development projects while earning interest income.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Ungheni and Leova Launch Public Offers of Municipal Bonds Worth MDL 19 Million in Total for Local Development Projects

Monday, 10 August 2026

The town halls of Ungheni and Leova have launched their first public offers of municipal bonds, worth MDL 19 million in total, to finance local infrastructure projects. The offers were presented at a launch event and are supported by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, with Victoriabank as financial intermediary.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Consumers Can File Complaints Directly with Traders via edemocrație.gov.md

Monday, 10 August 2026

Moldovan consumers can now file complaints directly with traders through the eDemocrație platform at edemocrație.gov.md. A new Consumer Protection module lets them handle the whole process in one digital place, from the complaint to an individual or collective petition to the competent institution if no solution is found.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Ceadîr-Lunga Launches Its Third Municipal Bond Issue, Raising MDL 8 Million for Local Projects

Monday, 03 August 2026

The municipality of Ceadîr-Lunga launched on 3 August 2026 the public offer for its third municipal bond issue, raising MDL 8 million for four local projects. The launch took place at maib park, with maib as financial intermediary and support from Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

New Consumer Protection Module on the eDemocrație Platform Presented to Entrepreneurs at CONSECON

Friday, 31 July 2026

The new Consumer Protection module of the eDemocrație platform was presented to entrepreneurs at a CONSECON meeting, chaired by Liliana Busuioc of the SME Advisory Council. Officials, business associations and Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup discussed how traders will receive and resolve consumer complaints submitted through the platform.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Four Training Sessions to Prepare State-Owned Companies for Accessing the Capital Market

Tuesday, 14 July 2026

Four training sessions held on 7-10 July prepared Moldovan state-owned companies to raise financing on the capital market. The series is part of a project implemented by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, together with the Public Property Agency, the Moldova International Stock Exchange, maib and Victoriabank.

Supporting the SOE reform by improving the legal framework, reorganization of PPA and enforcing good governance

24 Municipalities from the Republic of Moldova Complete a Study Visit to the Kingdom of the Netherlands

Monday, 22 June 2026

Representatives of 24 municipalities from the Republic of Moldova made a study visit to the Netherlands to exchange experience on local development. The visit was part of the programme European Integration through Local Development, which aims to widen local authorities' access to financing for infrastructure projects.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Winners of Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 Announced: Five Businesses to Receive EUR 5,000 Grants and Mentoring

Friday, 05 June 2026

The winners of Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 have been announced: five young businesses will each receive a EUR 5,000 grant and mentoring. The programme is implemented by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), in partnership with ASEM, ISD and Backstage IT.

Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 - a support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova (3rd edition)

Over 500 People Attended Public Discussions on European Integration Organised by Expert-Grup in Local Communities

Friday, 29 May 2026

Over 500 people attended public discussions on European integration organised by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup in local communities. The meetings were held in Sireți, Ungheni, Ceadîr-Lunga, Trușeni, Anenii Noi, Colibași and Leova, and brought together entrepreneurs, local authority representatives and young people.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Leova Town Hall to Issue Municipal Bonds Worth MDL 9 Million for Urban Development

Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Leova Town Hall will issue municipal bonds worth MDL 9 million for urban development. The issue is prepared with the support of Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup experts and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Victoriabank will act as financial intermediary.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Ungheni Municipality Town Hall to Issue Municipal Bonds for the First Time to Develop Local Infrastructure

Wednesday, 13 May 2026

Ungheni Town Hall is preparing its first municipal bond issue to finance local infrastructure. Victoriabank will act as financial intermediary under a contract signed on 12 May, with Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup supporting the process and the Dutch ambassador attending the event.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

Ceadîr-Lunga Municipality Town Hall Prepares Its Third Municipal Bond Issue

Tuesday, 12 May 2026

Ceadir-Lunga Municipality Town Hall is preparing its third municipal bond issue, the first local authority in Moldova to reach this stage. maib was selected as financial intermediary through a competitive public process and signed the contract on 11 May.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

National Labour Market and Social Dialogue Forum: Reform Directions for a More Inclusive and Competitive Labour Market

Thursday, 30 April 2026

The National Labour Market and Social Dialogue Forum brought together government officials, experts and development partners to discuss reforms for a more inclusive and competitive labour market in Moldova. It was organised by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup with support from Soros Foundation Moldova.

Assistance for labor market reform

Expert-Grup Publishes the Independent Monitoring Report on the Implementation of the State Property Management Strategy

Tuesday, 28 April 2026

Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup has published an independent monitoring report on the implementation of the 2023-2030 State Property Management Strategy for state-owned enterprises and majority state-owned companies. It covers progress in 2023-2025 and the priorities for the next stage.

Supporting the SOE reform by improving the legal framework, reorganization of PPA and enforcing good governance

Third Edition of the Tulip Business Incubator Programme for Young Entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova Launched

Saturday, 25 April 2026

The third edition of the Tulip Business Incubator programme for young Moldovan entrepreneurs aged up to 35 has been launched at the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova. It is implemented by Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup with the Netherlands Embassy and the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO).

Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 - a support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova (3rd edition)

Specialists from the Republic of Moldova and Abroad Discuss Reconfiguring Consumer Protection in the Digital Age in Chișinău

Friday, 13 March 2026

Specialists from Moldova and abroad gathered in Chisinau for the second international scientific conference on reconfiguring consumer protection in the digital age. It is organised by the European Consumer Centre of Moldova and the Stefan cel Mare Academy of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

The paradox between the labour shortage and the high inactivity rate in Moldova discussed at a CONSECON meeting

Friday, 06 March 2026

A meeting of the Economic Council's CONSECON working group, chaired by Sergiu Harea of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discussed the paradox of labour shortages alongside high inactivity in Moldova. Ministers, state secretaries, immigration officials and business representatives took part.

Assistance for labor market reform

Tulip Business Incubator 3.0: grants, mentoring and development opportunities for young entrepreneurs (27 March: application deadline extended)

Tuesday, 03 March 2026

Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup invites entrepreneurs aged up to 35 to apply for Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 (2026 edition), which offers training, mentoring and grants. The application deadline was extended to Friday, 27 March, 17:00.

Tulip Business Incubator 3.0 - a support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova (3rd edition)

Youth Guarantee discussed at the Economic Council to the Prime Minister

Thursday, 05 February 2026

The Youth Guarantee was discussed at a CONSECON meeting of the Economic Council to the Prime Minister, chaired by Sergiu Harea. About 100 participants joined in person and online, including EU, ILO and Commission experts, and Lithuanian and Ukrainian practitioners.

Assistance for labor market reform

26 municipalities selected for the project to strengthen the resilience of local public authorities

Friday, 30 January 2026

Twenty-six local authorities have been selected from 80 applicants for a project to strengthen the resilience of local public authorities in Moldova. The first online meeting with the selected town halls presented the programme and the stages planned for this year.

Strengthening the resilience capacity of local public authorities

A new meeting of the Supervisory Committee for the development of the Information System "Register of Public Assets and State Property Management"

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

The Supervisory Committee for the development of the Information System Register of Public Assets and State Property Management (SI RPPAPS) held a new meeting to review progress on the system's submodules, next steps and implementation constraints. The system is being developed by the Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup for the Public Property Agency.

Labour market reform and priorities for 2026 discussed at a new meeting of the "Labour Market Development" Working Group

Tuesday, 23 December 2025

The Labour Market Development Working Group (No. 6) of the Economic Council to the Prime Minister met to discuss the labour ministry's reform priorities under the new Government's work plan and to approve the group's 2026 work plan. The meeting was chaired by Sergiu Harea and attended by Minister Natalia Plugaru and civil society representatives.

Assistance for labor market reform

Key results of the project Civil Society for European Integration: lessons learned, priorities, impact at local and central level

Friday, 12 December 2025

The project "Civil Society for European Integration", implemented by the Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup with EU funding, held a closing event presenting its results after three years of work. It aimed to build an active, informed civil society supporting Moldova's EU integration agenda, and the event featured panels on lessons learned and on a future Economic and Social Committee.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

MACRO 2025: European integration and inclusion policies for Moldova's economic future

Friday, 28 November 2025

The MACRO 2025 conference, organised by the Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, discussed European integration and inclusion policies for Moldova's economic future. The 13th edition focused on internal inequality and the gap with the EU, and presented the State of the Country Report 2025, with Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu attending.

Programme for municipalities. European integration through local development: increasing local public authorities' access to funding opportunities for infrastructure projects

Thursday, 20 November 2025

The Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup, with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova, invites municipalities across the country to join a programme that helps local authorities access funding for infrastructure projects. The programme runs from January 2026 to June 2027, and applications are due by 20 December 2025.

MACRO 2025 Conference "Bridging the Divide: Addressing Poverty and Economic Divergence in the Context of the Republic of Moldova’s European Integration Process"

Monday, 17 November 2025

One of the most important forums for public debate on the economic and social developments of the Republic of Moldova – the MACRO Conference – returns this year. The 2025 edition, organized by the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” in partnership with the “Friedrich Ebert” Foundation Moldova, will take place on November 28, 2025, from 09:30 to 15:30, in Chisinau, and will have as its theme “Bridging the Divide: Addressing Poverty and Economic Divergence in the Context of the Republic of Moldova’s European Integration Process”.

16th meeting of the EU-Moldova Civil Society Platform: commitments on accession, social reforms and economic growth

Monday, 17 November 2025

The 16th meeting of the EU-Moldova Civil Society Platform, held on 11 November 2025 in Brussels, brought together civil society, EU institutions and Moldovan authorities to discuss accession negotiations and reforms. It ended with a joint declaration setting out civil society recommendations. The meeting was held under the project Civil Society for European Integration.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

15 Local Partner CSOs on Study Visit to Brussels: Dialogue with EU Institutions and Recommendations for Speeding Up Reforms

Thursday, 13 November 2025

Fifteen local partner civil society organisations from the project Civil Society for European Integration made a study visit to Brussels on 10-11 November 2025. They met EU and Moldovan officials, discussed the Growth Plan and a possible Economic and Social Council, and took part in the 16th meeting of the EU-Moldova Civil Society Platform.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

How to Stop Bills Burning a Hole in Our Pockets: Energy, Water and Sewerage Consumer Problems Discussed at the Expert-Grup and ANRE Press Club

Thursday, 06 November 2025

The Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the energy regulator ANRE held a press club on 4 November 2025 on consumer problems with energy, water and sewerage bills. It brought together ANRE, the European Consumer Centre Moldova (ECC Moldova), experts and journalists to discuss frequent complaints and the tools available to resolve them.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

ECC Moldova: A Year of Prolific Activity in Support of Consumers

Wednesday, 05 November 2025

ECC Moldova, the European Consumer Centre of the Republic of Moldova, marked a year of activity supporting consumers. Created under the project Strengthening the Consumer Protection Framework in Moldova, implemented by Expert-Grup with IPRE, it provides free legal support, especially in cross-border disputes, and promotes consumer rights.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Winners of the Quiz at the 6th Financial Education Camp Receive Their Well-Earned Prizes

Friday, 24 October 2025

Winners of the quiz at the 6th Financial Education Camp, organised by the National Bank of Moldova and Expert-Grup, received their certificates and prizes. Governor Anca Dragu presented the awards, highlighting the value of financial education for the country's economic future.

Financial literacy campaign

Costești Town Hall Issues MDL 4.5 Million in Municipal Bonds to Finance Local Infrastructure

Monday, 22 September 2025

Costești town hall in Moldova has launched its first public offering of municipal bonds worth MDL 4.5 million to fund a sewerage and wastewater treatment project. The launch event brought together Dutch embassy, financial regulator, bank and local officials, with Expert-Grup as moderator.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

Expert-Grup Presents Position Paper: Solutions for Remedying Moldova's Excessive Current Account Deficit

Friday, 19 September 2025

Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup presented a position paper on how to reduce Moldova's large and growing current account deficit. The paper, written by Marina Soloviova, was discussed at an event with participants who proposed their own solutions.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Thermal Retrofit of Bălți's Tallest Residential Block Brings Energy Bill Savings of Up to 50%

Monday, 08 September 2025

A thermal retrofit of the tallest residential block in Bălți, an 80-apartment building, has cut heating consumption and energy bills. The pilot project "Primele Rândunele" was implemented by Expert-Grup with Dutch and Slovak support and presented during a visit by State Secretary Carolina Novac.

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

Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Creation of the Moldovan Economic and Social Committee

Friday, 05 September 2025

Civil society organisations from Moldova signed a Memorandum of Understanding on creating a Moldovan Economic and Social Committee (CESM). The initiative supports civil and social dialogue in line with the European social model, in the context of Moldova's EU candidate status and accession negotiations.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Sireți Launches MDL 3 Million Public Bond Offering

Wednesday, 03 September 2025

The village of Sireți in Moldova has launched a public offering of municipal bonds worth MDL 3 million to rebuild sections of local roads. The launch event gathered central and local officials, financial institutions, development partners and potential investors.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

6th Edition of the Financial Education Camp Concludes Successfully

Thursday, 07 August 2025

The sixth edition of the Financial Education Camp, organised by the National Bank of Moldova and Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup, has concluded. Over four days, more than 230 young people from across the country took part in sessions on the financial system, payments, entrepreneurship and investment.

BNM and Expert-Grup launch the 6th edition of the Financial Education Camp for young people across the country

Tuesday, 05 August 2025

The National Bank of Moldova and Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup launched the sixth edition of the Financial Education Camp for young people nationwide. The opening featured Governor Anca Dragu and Expert-Grup executive director Adrian Lupușor.

Launch of the second Independent Monitoring Report on Moldova's implementation of the European Commission's recommendations – progress, challenges and priorities

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Expert-Grup and partners presented the second Independent Monitoring Report on how Moldova has implemented the European Commission's recommendations. It covers the "Fundamentals" cluster of the EU accession process and is meant to feed into the Commission's first Enlargement Report on Moldova, due in autumn 2025.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Labour market reform: employment and occupational safety policies at the centre of discussions in the "Labour Market Development" Working Group

Friday, 25 July 2025

The Labour Market Development Working Group (No. 6) of the Economic Council to the Prime Minister met to discuss active employment measures and a draft Government decision on occupational safety rules. The meeting brought together authorities, business, trade unions, civil society experts and international partners.

Assistance for labor market reform

"Financial Education Camp" – an initiative connecting young people across Moldova

Monday, 14 July 2025

The Financial Education Camp, a joint initiative of the National Bank of Moldova and Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup, is open for registration in an online edition for young people across Moldova. Sign-up is free and runs until 27 July 2025.

Delayed flights, lost luggage – what rights do passengers have? Press club with the Civil Aeronautical Authority and ECC Moldova

Friday, 11 July 2025

A press club hosted by Expert-Grup brought together the Civil Aeronautical Authority (AAC) and the European Consumer Centre Moldova (ECC Moldova) to explain passenger rights in cases of delayed flights and lost luggage. It was held in summer 2025, amid record passenger growth at Chisinau International Airport.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Soros Foundation Moldova, with financial support from the European Union, launches a grant programme for opening nurseries and supporting families in vulnerable situations

Friday, 04 July 2025

Soros Foundation Moldova, with European Union financing, has launched a grant programme to open nurseries and support parents in vulnerable situations. At least 24 Moldovan organisations will receive grants to develop local services combining employment opportunities with early childcare.

Increased local employment opportunities and access to nurseries for vulnerable parents

Expert-Grup and ANSA press club | Non-compliant food products and catering services: how consumers are protected

Friday, 27 June 2025

Independent Think Tank Expert-Grup and the National Food Safety Agency (ANSA) held a press club on non-compliant food products and catering services and how consumers are protected. ANSA representatives, civil society and journalists discussed the main consumer complaints and institutional responses.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Reforming the legal framework for entrepreneurship – priorities proposed by Expert-Grup, discussed at a roundtable

Tuesday, 24 June 2025

Expert-Grup held a roundtable to discuss priorities for reforming Moldova's legal framework for entrepreneurship. The event took place as the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalisation launched public consultations on a draft new law on entrepreneurship.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Costești Town Hall prepares its first municipal bond issue – financial intermediary contracted

Monday, 23 June 2025

Costesti Town Hall is preparing its first municipal bond issue and has contracted maib as financial intermediary after a transparent, competitive procedure. The process is supported by Expert-Grup experts under a programme backed by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

Government Factoring – a solution for reviving Moldova's agricultural sector, analysed at a roundtable

Friday, 20 June 2025

Expert-Grup held a roundtable on Government Factoring as a way to revive Moldova's agricultural sector. Participants discussed how the mechanism could release liquidity for farmers and strengthen economic stability in rural areas and related fields.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Early Movers: Thermal Retrofit of Bălți's Tallest Building, a Model of Energy Efficiency for Moldova

Wednesday, 11 June 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” presented the results of the thermal retrofit of a 16-storey residential block in Bălți, the tallest in the city. The event, backed by the Dutch and Slovak embassies, SlovakAid and the Energy Community Secretariat, brought together officials, ambassadors, development partners, banks, civil society and residents.

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

Consumer protection enters the digital era: AGE and Expert-Grup launched, at Moldova Digital Summit 2025, a joint initiative to modernise and simplify the petitioning process for consumers

Friday, 06 June 2025

At Moldova Digital Summit 2025, held on 5-7 June, the e-Democrație platform is being officially launched, a digital tool that will help strengthen citizens’ participation in decision-making and facilitate direct communication with public authorities. By the end of the year, the platform will include a module dedicated to consumers, which will allow petitions to be submitted in a simplified way to all institutions responsible for consumer protection.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Six young entrepreneurs to receive EUR 5,000 grants under Tulip Business Incubator 2.0

Monday, 02 June 2025

The second edition of the Tulip Business Incubator programme has named its winners after a final pitching session held before a panel of experts and potential investors. Six young entrepreneurs from Moldova will each receive a grant of EUR 5,000, together with six months of personalised mentoring.

Tulip Business Incubator 2.0 - support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova

Protection of Communications Service Consumers: Problems Consumers Face and Available Solutions, Discussed at a Press Club Organised by Expert-Grup

Thursday, 22 May 2025

On 22 May 2025, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” hosted at its Chișinău headquarters the second press club of the EU-funded project “Strengthening the Consumer Protection Framework in the Republic of Moldova”. Journalists, communications regulator representatives and civil society discussed consumer problems with communications services and the available solutions.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Moldova's Growth Plan analysed in dialogue with the media

Tuesday, 13 May 2025

On 13 May 2025, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, together with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC) and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, held a press club on the Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova, discussing expectations, implementation and what to monitor.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Labour Market Challenges Debated at the National Labour Market and Social Dialogue Forum: Shortages, Informal Employment and Institutional Reforms

Thursday, 08 May 2025

On 6 May 2025, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with the Soros Foundation Moldova, held the National Labour Market and Social Dialogue Forum. It brought together officials, business, trade unions, international organisations and experts to discuss the challenges and prospects of Moldova’s labour market.

Assistance for labor market reform

First Municipal Bonds for Sireți Town Hall: Financial Intermediary Contracted

Wednesday, 30 April 2025

The Sireți town hall has signed an intermediation contract with Victoriabank and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” for its first municipal bond issue. The bank was selected through an open competition in March 2025. The issue will raise funds for local road infrastructure projects in the village of Sireți, Moldova.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

Consumer Protection in the Consumer Credit Market Discussed at a Dedicated Press Club Organised by Expert-Grup

Thursday, 24 April 2025

On 24 April, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held a press club on consumer protection in the consumer credit market. Participants discussed how to avoid over-indebtedness, abusive clauses and fraud, and how the National Commission for Financial Markets protects the rights of users of lending services.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Expert-Grup: “Budget Plus” Must Be Aligned with Good Governance Principles and an Economic Model Based on Value Added

Wednesday, 16 April 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” presented a position paper at a press conference on the draft amendment to the 2025 State Budget Law, known as “Budget Plus”, and on the implementation of Moldova's Economic Growth Plan, which is financially supported by the European Union.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Moldova must transition to a new economic growth model based on higher added value

Tuesday, 25 March 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the support of the Centre for Social and Economic Research (CASE, Poland), argues in a new position paper that Moldova, whose economy stagnated in 2024 with GDP growth of 0.1%, must shift to a growth model built on higher added value.

Expert-Grup Launches Study: The Transition to Renewable Energy: Opportunities and Policy Recommendations

Thursday, 20 March 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova, held a round table and launched a policy study on Moldova's transition to renewable energy. The event brought together experts, government officials, diplomats, academics and private companies to discuss opportunities and challenges.

Consumer protection in focus: key conclusions of the international conference

Friday, 14 March 2025

On 13 and 14 March 2025, the first international scientific conference “Consumer protection: integrated approaches in the legal system” was held in a hybrid format. It was organised by the European Consumer Centre of the Republic of Moldova with several academic partners, with European Union and Soros Foundation Moldova support.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Tulip Business Incubator 2.0 – A New Boost for Young Entrepreneurs in Moldova

Friday, 14 March 2025

On Thursday, 13 March 2025, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” officially launched the second edition of “Tulip Business Incubator 2.0”, a programme for young entrepreneurs in Moldova. Thirty participants were selected from more than 70 applicants from across the country.

Tulip Business Incubator 2.0 - support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova

We are launching the European.md Chatbot – Quick answers about the European integration of the Republic of Moldova, using clear information and trusted sources!

Thursday, 13 February 2025

The revolution in the field of artificial intelligence brings not only risks related to disinformation and fake news, but also opportunities to combat these phenomena and inform ourselves correctly.

A New Opportunity for Young Entrepreneurs: Tulip Business Incubator 2.0

Tuesday, 11 February 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the support of the Embassy of the Netherlands in Chișinău and in partnership with the Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova, has launched Tulip Business Incubator 2.0, a support programme for young entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova aged up to 35. Applications close on 28 February 2025.

Tulip Business Incubator 2.0 - support program for young entrepreneurs from the Republic of Moldova

Moldova's Macroeconomic Resilience in the Context of Regional Security: Prospects and Vulnerabilities Presented at an Expert-Grup Round Table

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” hosted a round table on the macroeconomic resilience of the Republic of Moldova amid regional and global security threats. The event brought together economists, policy experts, government officials, embassy and donor representatives and civil society to assess the country's exposure to external shocks and policy options.

Increasing the economic resilience of Armenia, Georgia, and Moldova

Launch of the State of the Country Report 2024: Trends, Forecasts and Vulnerabilities of the National Economy

Friday, 13 December 2024

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, together with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation Moldova, launched the State of the Country Report 2024 on 12 December in Chișinău, at the 12th annual international MACRO 2024 Conference. The report analyses Moldova's economic trends, forecasts and vulnerabilities, and offers policy recommendations.

“Financial Education for All” Forum: Achievements and Actions for the Future

Tuesday, 10 December 2024

More than 100 participants gathered at the National Forum “Financial Education for All” to assess the results of the largest financial education campaign in the history of the Republic of Moldova and to set future strategic directions. It was organised by the National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”.

Results of the “Financial Education for All” campaign and the Strategic National Financial Education Programme to be presented at a national forum

Friday, 06 December 2024

The National Bank of Moldova, in partnership with the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, is organising a National Financial Education Forum on 10 December. The event will bring together over 100 participants and present the results of the “Financial Education for All” national campaign, supported by the USAID MISRA programme.

Financial literacy campaign

Strengthening the Corporate Governance of State-Owned Companies: Closing Event of the Technical Assistance Project

Tuesday, 03 December 2024

On 3 December, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the Public Property Agency and with the support of the Soros Foundation Moldova, held the closing event of a technical assistance project on adopting international best practices in the corporate governance of state-owned companies.

Technical assistance to the SOEs’ governance reform

MACRO Annual International Conference: ”Moldovan economy amid electoral cycles”, twelfth edition

Tuesday, 03 December 2024

The Independent Think-Tank ”Expert-Grup” and Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Moldova (FES), we are honoured to invite you to participate in the twelfth edition of MACRO Annual International Conference: ”Moldovan economy amid electoral cycles”.

“A series of complex actions will follow to strengthen social cohesion in the Republic of Moldova and counter disinformation in the context of EU accession,” the EU–Moldova Civil Society Platform said at its 14th meeting

Monday, 18 November 2024

On 15 November 2024, the 14th meeting of the European Union – Republic of Moldova Civil Society Platform took place in Brussels. Participants assessed Moldova's progress in implementing the Association Agreement and the European Commission's recommendations on the country's accession to the European Union.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Launch of the European Consumer Centre in the Republic of Moldova – an important step in strengthening the consumer protection framework and trust in the mechanisms of the European single market

Tuesday, 05 November 2024

The European Consumer Centre in the Republic of Moldova (ECCM) was officially launched at an event attended by Moldovan and Romanian public authorities, donors, business associations, academics and consumer protection experts. A roundtable discussed the centre's role, its short-, medium- and long-term plans, and what the authorities expect of it.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

“The First Swallow/Mover” in Bălți: Residents of the City’s Tallest 16-Storey Residential Building Will Be Able to Save Up to 30% on Bills

Friday, 01 November 2024

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, backed by SlovakAid, the Netherlands, the Energy Community Secretariat, the Ministry of Energy and the National Centre for Sustainable Energy, has launched the thermal insulation and façade renovation of a 16-storey apartment block at 3/A Ștefan cel Mare și Sfânt Street in Bălți.

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

Savings and investment opportunities on Moldova’s financial market discussed with media representatives

Thursday, 31 October 2024

On 31 October, World Savings Day, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the National Bank of Moldova and with USAID MISRA support, held a press club in Chișinău. Journalists and experts reviewed the savings and investment products available on the financial market of the Republic of Moldova.

Financial literacy campaign

Ceadîr-Lunga Launches Second Municipal Bond Issue to Modernise Infrastructure

Monday, 07 October 2024

On 7 October, the municipality of Ceadîr-Lunga launched its second municipal bond issue, aiming to raise MDL 5 million to rehabilitate road infrastructure. The launch event brought together the town hall, Victoriabank, the National Financial Market Commission, the Embassy of the Netherlands, public authorities and potential investors.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

Corporate Governance Training Platform: A New Tool for Professionalising the Boards of State-Owned Companies

Thursday, 26 September 2024

The Public Property Agency, in collaboration with the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and with financial support from the Soros Foundation Moldova, has launched an online training platform for members of the boards of state-owned companies. It is also open to anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of good corporate governance.

Press Club: “Assessing the Republic of Moldova’s Progress in Implementing the European Commission’s Recommendations in the Area of Justice in the Context of EU Accession”

Saturday, 21 September 2024

On 18 September, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held a press club with journalists to discuss how far the Moldovan authorities have progressed in implementing the European Commission’s justice-related recommendations under the EU accession process, drawing on the first independent monitoring report.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Discussions on creating an Economic and Social Committee in the Republic of Moldova: a new institutional framework to strengthen dialogue between civil society and the authorities

Tuesday, 10 September 2024

On Monday, 9 September, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC) and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, held a round table on creating an Economic and Social Committee in the Republic of Moldova, bringing together officials, donors, civil society and media.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Discussions with Media Representatives on Moldova's Progress in Implementing the European Commission's Recommendations on Fundamental Rights, Freedom of Expression, and Social Policy and Employment

Tuesday, 03 September 2024

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and its partners held a press club with media representatives to discuss Moldova's progress in implementing the European Commission's recommendations on fundamental rights, freedom of expression, and social policy and employment, based on the first independent monitoring report on the country's EU accession process.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Press Club: “Assessing the Republic of Moldova’s Progress in Implementing the European Commission’s Economic Recommendations in the EU Accession Process”

Thursday, 01 August 2024

Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held a press club with journalists to discuss the reforms of the Chișinău authorities in implementing European Commission recommendations on the economic chapters of EU accession. The discussion drew on the first independent monitoring report, produced with IPRE, IVC and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Round table: “Mobility Strategy: how do we ensure infrastructure modernisation, the competitiveness of domestic transport and good governance in the system?”

Wednesday, 31 July 2024

On 30 July 2024, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with support from the National Endowment for Democracy, presented at a round table its analytical note on Moldova's draft Mobility Strategy 2030. The note was written by Vitalie Rapcea, Expert-Grup's director of the economic and environmental infrastructure programme.

Strengthening the Monitoring Capacity of Civil Society in Moldova

Launch of the first Independent Monitoring Report on Moldova's progress in implementing the European Commission's recommendations in the EU accession process: achievements, constraints, priorities

Thursday, 25 July 2024

On 23 July 2024, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE), Institutum Virtutes Civilis (IVC) and the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, presented Independent Monitoring Report No. 1, assessing Moldova's progress in implementing the European Commission's recommendations in the EU accession process.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Municipal Bonds in the Republic of Moldova: Results Three Years After the First Issues

Tuesday, 16 July 2024

On 16 July 2024, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova, presented the results of the first three municipal bond issues, launched in Chișinău, Sîngera and Ceadîr-Lunga in 2021-2022, to local authorities, experts, banks and civil society.

Program for supporting 4 LPAs in Launching Municipal Bonds

Accessible Financial Information for All Citizens Under the National Financial Education Campaign

Friday, 05 July 2024

The National Bank of Moldova, in partnership with the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, is launching a series of informative materials on financial topics for consumers of all ages. The materials will be disseminated under the National Financial Education Campaign, which is supported by USAID (MISRA).

Financial literacy campaign

The “Financial Education for All” Camp: Promoting Financial Responsibility among Young People

Friday, 28 June 2024

The “Financial Education for All” camp, organised by the National Bank of Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, brought together young people from several Moldovan towns to learn about key financial concepts. Participants received certificates of participation at the end of the camp.

Financial literacy campaign

The Importance of Boards of Directors for Good Governance of State-Owned Companies Discussed at a Press Club

Friday, 14 June 2024

The Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with Soros Foundation Moldova, held a press club on the reform of state-owned companies. The discussion focused on the role of boards of directors in ensuring good corporate governance, including the plan to attract independent members, notably from the diaspora.

Technical assistance to the SOEs’ governance reform

Moldova Significantly Improved Its Position in the Global Budget Transparency Ranking

Monday, 03 June 2024

Moldova has recorded significant improvements in public access to budget information, according to the Open Budget Survey 2023. 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, the Court of Accounts and parliamentary committees.

Over 20 young people receive financial education ambassador certificates from National Bank of Moldova Governor Anca Dragu

Friday, 24 May 2024

National Bank of Moldova Governor Anca Dragu presented certificates to 24 young financial education ambassadors. They organised training sessions for their peers in towns and villages across Moldova, as part of the National Financial Education Campaign run by the National Bank in partnership with Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”.

Financial literacy campaign

Financial Education Camp “Financial Education for All”, 2024 Edition

Wednesday, 22 May 2024

The National Bank of Moldova and Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, with USAID Moldova support, invite young people aged 15 to 19 to the 2024 “Financial Education for All” camp. It will take place on 26–28 June 2024 at the Odiseu resort in Vadul lui Vodă.

Financial literacy campaign

The European Union and Soros Moldova Foundation support the consumers protection framework in the Republic of Moldova as a key component of the association agenda and of the European integration process

Tuesday, 30 April 2024

The Independent Analytical Centre “Expert-Grup”, in partnership with the European Union Delegation in the Republic of Moldova, Soros Moldova Foundation and the Institute for European Policies and Reforms organized today, at April 30, the launching event of the project “Consolidation of Consumers Protection Framework in the Republic of Moldova”. It is a major importance project for our country since this area is indispensable for the assurance of a sound competition and a functional and fair market economy, but also considering the fact that consumers protection is a key-component for the European integration process.

Consolidation of the consumer protection framework in the Republic of Moldova

Expert-Grup presented the conclusions and recommendations of its independent evaluation report on the pilot of the 2024 Population and Housing Census in the Republic of Moldova

Tuesday, 23 April 2024

On 23 April, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” held a round table titled “Population and Housing Census 2024: independent evaluation of the preparation and organisation of the process”. It presented the main findings and recommendations of its independent evaluation of the census pilot, carried out with European Union support.

Monitoring the pilot phase of the population census

“We want to help strengthen European integration processes and counter disinformation”, says the EU-Moldova Civil Society Platform

Friday, 19 April 2024

At its 13th meeting, held in hybrid format, the EU-Republic of Moldova Civil Society Platform urged the authorities in Chișinău to continue dialogue with civil society on reforms, anti-corruption and the fight against disinformation. It was the first meeting since the European Council's decision of 14 December 2023 to open accession negotiations.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Launch of the New Website of the Public Property Agency and of the Training Platform for Board Members of State-Owned Enterprises

Thursday, 18 April 2024

The Public Property Agency, in partnership with the Soros Foundation Moldova and the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup”, has launched its new website, www.app.gov.md, and a training platform for board members of state-owned companies. The launch aims to promote transparency and efficiency in managing public property in the Republic of Moldova.

Technical assistance to the SOEs’ governance reform

Low Level of Financial Literacy Increases the Number of Financial Fraud Victims

Monday, 01 April 2024

At a press club held as part of the National Financial Education Campaign, run by the National Bank of Moldova and Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” with USAID support, officials presented 2023 data on cashless payments in Moldova and warned that weak financial literacy is fuelling payment fraud.

Financial literacy campaign

We appreciate our country's considerable progress on the European path and in the process of democratic transformation

Thursday, 28 March 2024

On 24 March 2025 in Chișinău, the fifteenth meeting of the European Union–Republic of Moldova Civil Society Platform took place. It reviewed Moldova's progress in EU accession negotiations across several thematic chapters, including environmental liability, human rights, consumer protection, company law and foreign policy, as well as the EU growth plan.

Resilient CSOs + Responsible Budgeting = Accelerated AA implementation

Results in advancing the State Labour Inspectorate and NEA reforms discussed at the closing event of the project “Technical Assistance to the Government and Parliament for Promoting Fair Recovery Policies and Economic Justice”

Monday, 18 March 2024

On 18 March, the Independent Think Tank “Expert-Grup” and the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, in partnership with the Soros Foundation Moldova, held the closing event of a technical assistance project for the Government and Parliament, implemented from April 2022 to March 2024 to tackle informal employment.

Technical assistance to the Government and Parliament to promote just recovery and economic justice policies

Public discussion: „Moldova under disinformation threats: Mapping Russian narratives and sharing the Lithuanian experience of countering disinformation”

Thursday, 14 March 2024

Expert-Grup în parteneriat cu Centrul de Studii Est-Europene din Lituania (Rytų Europos studijų centras / Eastern Europe Studies Centre a organizat, săptămâna aceasta, discuția publică cu genericul „Moldova sub amenințări de dezinformare: cartografierea narațiunilor rusești și împărtășirea experienței lituaniene de combatere a dezinformării”.

Building Strategic Communication to Counter Russian Disinformation in Moldova