In the Republic of Moldova, out-migration is consistent across the country, particularly in rural areas. About 20% of the Republic of Moldova’s labor force is involved in migration, with an average migrant age of 35. Most migrants already have families and emigrate due to low average monthly income and limited job opportunities. Since the population of the Republic of Moldova is primarily rural, many migrants come from small villages in rural areas, where most remittances are sent and, in total, account for an estimated 30% or more of Moldova’s GDP.
Currently, major destinations of Moldovan migrants are EU countries, the Russian Federation, Romania, Israel, USA and Canada, although migration to the Russian Federation has decreased significantly since the 2014 economic crisis. Most long-term migration is towards the European Union.
Many migrants from Moldova are also citizens of countries in the European Union or the Commonwealth of Independent States. Holding multiple citizenships encourages mobility as well as ensures migrants have access to social and health systems in host countries.
Mobility is encouraged by many migrants also possessing citizenship of a European Union country or one of the Commonwealth of Independent States. This offers migrants employment as well as access to social and health systems in host countries. Diaspora relations may play a critical role in the development of Moldova, with the country implementing policies to maintain communication with migrants who are developing new skills and networks. In recent years, migration patterns have changed as more young people have sought better educations and jobs in European Union countries.
Study site: Considering the relatively small size of the country and rather homogeneous structure of the population by social and economic criteria, studies will focus on three villages in the North, Central and South regions of the country. The coronavirus pandemic resulted in lockdowns, border closures and canceled flights, with some workers from Moldova restricted from returning to the country. Some migrants who returned home were forced to purchase compulsory medical insurance, resulting in additional financial pressures. However, the government has decided to fully cover the costs of Covid-19 treatment for all hospitalized citizens whether they have health insurance or not.
