Republic of Moldova

Young people in Moldova are disproportionately affected by the economic crisis

An increasing number of young people are unemployed and suffer from labour market disadvantage and is therefore important that the existing services outreach to this increased number of unemployed youth.

Chişinău, 12 August 2009 – Urgent response is needed to address the increasing number of young unemployed in Moldova and avoid further deterioration in poverty (in particular, rural poverty), say representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), based on a analysis conducted on youth unemployment and poverty in the Republic of Moldova and presented today on the occasion of the International Youth Day. The economic crisis has led to an increase in unemployment in the country, with youth unemployment in particular (15-24 age group) rising to 16% in the first quarter of 2009 (compared to 14% in 2007). Youth unemployment rate is higher in rural areas (17%) while in urban areas it constitutes 15%. Although this is comparable to the average for countries in the EU and much lower compared to some neighbouring countries, young people in Moldova suffer from clear labour market disadvantage.

"Young people continue to face lack of experience and distrust of potential employers while, at the same time, having to compete with more experienced returning migrants in domestic labour markets at a time of rising unemployment", said Lovita Ramguttee, Manager of the Poverty Reduction programme at UNDP Moldova.

The analysis suggests that, given that most of the young unemployed have only completed secondary education, the national policies and actions focus on vocational training and education where the National Employment Agency has a key role to play. It seems to be the case that many young people do not register as unemployed and therefore remain outside the coverage of the services they provide. This may be because they are unaware of the benefits of registering or because they are discouraged, in response to perceptions of poor employment opportunities and/or low wages.

The analysis argues that actions aimed at addressing youth unemployment in the country could potentially comprise of a package of measures, including professional orientation, training and work placements.

To respond to the needs of this vulnerable group of young people, UNDP has been providing assistance to more than 1,000 young people, of which nearly 700 have now been employed. This assistance is part of the ongoing UNDP implemented programme "Better Opportunities for Youth and Women", with contribution of the US Agency for International Development.

For contact: Ludmila Tiganu, Communications Specialist, tel. 269 112 or email: ludmila.tiganu@undp.org

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UNDP is the UN's global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. We are on the ground in 166 countries, working with them on their own solutions to global and national development challenges. As they develop local capacity, they draw on the people of UNDP and our wide range of partners. More about UNDP at www.undp.org and www.undp.md

Other Resources

Youth Unemployment and Poverty in Moldova: Current Situation and Possible Response (Eng),(Rom)

The Secretary-General Message On International Youth Day (Eng),(Rom), (Rus)

Mesajul Directorului Executiv UNFPA, Thoraya Ahmed Obaid (Rom)