Moldova

The Republic of Moldova is a rapidly changing country that has been transformed in the past 10 years. Economic reform, including privatization of collective farms and the transition to a market economy, is being actively challenged by the Communist-led government. Macro-economic policies have yet to improve the standard of living for the average Moldovan. Inflation continues to be a concern although the GDP has shown a small increase over the last three years. While Moldova continues to depend on Russia for the import of natural resources such as coal, oil, and natural gas, privatization has resulted in improved service and dependability in most regions. Still, the majority of Moldova's economy depends on Russia, whose own financial situation continues to have a direct impact on all aspects of the Moldovan economy. Tensions between Trans-Dniester and the Moldovan government continue with the closure of schools in the Trans-Dniester region and the threat of fuel shortages. Due to economic concerns, many professionals continue to leave Moldova to seek employment.

Recognizing this dependence on Russia, Moldova's government has expressed concern that lack of English proficiency, especially in the areas of environment, agriculture, trade, and business development, will inhibit cultural and economic contact with the West. Moldova's education system is in critical need of qualified teachers in the fields of English and health as well as for resources and instructional materials. Moldova has no educational institutions to train health education teachers, and basic health and health-care services continue to deteriorate. Peace Corps Volunteers are helping to address these issues by focusing their efforts in the areas of economic and organizational development, English, and health education.

In 1993, the government of Moldova invited Peace Corps Volunteers to come to Moldova. The government representatives believed that well-developed English language skills would help Moldovans participate in the international community and global economy by helping them gain access to a wealth of information, resources, and markets. Current English education Volunteers also incorporate environmental issues into the curriculum.

Recently, Peace Corps/Moldova added projects in organizational development, and agriculture and agrobusiness to assist the Moldovan government in addressing the country's economic and social development needs. Peace Corps Volunteers work in 97 towns and villages throughout the country. Since the program's inception, more than 400 Volunteers have served in Moldova.

Last updated Sep 27 2008