Protection of local Ukrainians' rights through support for local public authorities

   Ethnic Ukrainians, living predominantly in the north of Moldova, are an integral part of the country's multi-ethnic society, being the second largest ethnic group after Moldovans (4.9% according to the 2024 census). Historically, Ukrainians have played a significant role in the development of the northern regions, contributing to the economy, culture and public life.

    In recent years, however, ethnic Ukrainians have faced a number of challenges. These include difficulties in preserving their native language and culture, limited access to education in the Ukrainian language, as well as socio-economic problems such as unemployment and migration of young people in search of better opportunities.

    These factors underscore the need to develop and implement programmes aimed at supporting and integrating ethnic Ukrainians in Moldova, with a particular focus on preserving their cultural identity and improving their socio-economic situation.

    A socio-economic study conducted by the NCUM in July 2024 in areas of compact Ukrainian settlement identified significant disparities in infrastructure development, access to education and healthcare, and income levels.

    These infrastructure deficiencies require continued attention and investment to improve living conditions for ethnic Ukrainians and other residents of the northern regions of Moldova. Addressing these challenges is an important step towards strengthening social inclusion and improving the quality of life for communities in the region.

    In 2024, cooperation with local public authorities took a significant step forward with the establishment of the Council of Ukrainian Mayors, bringing together 17 mayoralties representing 33 settlements with a significant Ukrainian population and more than 60,000 residents of Ukrainian origin. The Council provides a platform for coordination, exchange of experience, and joint efforts to address the development needs of Ukrainian-populated communities.

    Building on this foundation, NCUM continued to strengthen structured cooperation with local public authorities and facilitate the inclusion of Ukrainian-populated communities in national and donor-funded programmes. The initiative focuses on improving coordination, supporting local development processes, and strengthening links between local authorities, line ministries and development partners.

    NCUM developed direct inter-municipal partnerships between communities in Moldova and Ukraine. In 2024, within the framework of “Ukrainian Day in Moldova”, NCUM facilitated the signing of 14 bilateral cooperation agreements between communities in Chernivtsi region of Ukraine and communities in the Republic of Moldova. These agreements created opportunities for local authorities to establish direct professional contacts, identify common priorities and develop areas for further cooperation.

    To strengthen institutional capacity at the local level, two study visits were organized in 2025 — to Romania in April and Poland in November. The visits focused on practical approaches to local development planning, access to funding mechanisms and implementation of development projects, providing mayors and local representatives with opportunities for direct professional exchange with local authorities and institutions.

    This cooperation continued in 2026 through further study visits to Romania in August and Poland in September. The continued exchange of experience supports the development of local institutional capacity and demonstrates how established contacts can develop into sustained professional cooperation between local authorities.

    NCUM also continued to facilitate direct partnerships between Moldovan and Ukrainian communities. On 18 July 2026, the third “Ukrainian Day in Moldova” festival in Iablona was held at an international level for the first time, jointly organized by NCUM and the Iablona Mayor’s Office, with the support of the Ministry of Culture of Moldova, the Embassy of Ukraine and the Agency for Interethnic Relations. An international panel discussion on cross-border cooperation between communities in the context of European integration brought together representatives from Moldova, Ukraine and Romania. During the event, three new bilateral cooperation agreements were signed between Iablona and Ukrainian communities, while work on additional potential partnerships continues.

    These activities reflect NCUM’s approach to strengthening the capacity of local communities through institutional cooperation, professional exchange and access to development opportunities. By facilitating communication between local authorities, communities, government institutions and international partners, NCUM supports the transition from initial contacts and formal agreements to sustained cooperation and joint initiatives.

    There are no quick and easy solutions to these challenges. NCUM’s approach is therefore to strengthen local institutional capacity, support Ukrainian-populated communities in articulating and addressing their development needs, and promote their inclusion in common national and European development processes and programmes supported by international partners.

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