Towards a sustainable future for NGOs in the Republic of Moldova: a review of recent developments and key reports

Abstract

The non-governmental organisation sector plays a vital role in fostering social development, promoting human rights, and enhancing democratic governance in the Republic of Moldova. Over the past three decades, the sector experienced significant growth and transformation, reflecting broader political, economic, and social changes in the country. However, despite notable achievements and the existent legal framework, NGOs in Moldova face persistent challenges related to sustainability, including financial instability, limited institutional capacity, and fluctuating relationships with state authorities. This paper aims to analyse the evolution of the NGO sector through a comprehensive review of key national and international reports. It further explores current sustainability challenges and identifies opportunities for building a sustainable future, providing insights that are crucial for NGOs, policymakers, and other stakeholders committed to strengthening civil society. While building a sustainable future for these organisations requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders, NGOs must prioritize institutional strengthening and seek innovative funding strategies. At the same time, state authorities should foster an enabling environment through transparent cooperation mechanisms.