Moldova’s Goal of Zero Children in Institutions is Within Reach
Government, academia, and implementers coalesce around evidence-into-practice policy and programs centered on child care and protections systems
According to the Better Care Network, Moldova has made great strides in reforming its child care and protection system over the past 15 years. With a strong legal and policy framework, a five-year National Child Protection Program (2022-2026), and broad support of the international community, Moldova’s goal of zero children in institutions and availability of alternative forms of care is achievable. Research and practice show that 1) early interventions for young children lead to recovery for some developmental outcomes and 2) transition to family-based care is associated with lasting change that has significant implications for the long-term health of society.
Within this context, the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, in cooperation with Changing the Way We Care (CTWWC) Moldova and local partner CCF Moldova, organized an international conference in March titled “Child protection and care reform in the context of Moldova – EU Association agenda: Ending the placement of young children in institutional care – from policy to action.” More than 100 participants, representing an array of care reform actors and decision makers in the central and local government, NGOs, academia and international experts, reviewed findings of the Bucharest Early Intervention Project and national research conducted in 2023 on a potential moratorium on placing children in institutional care.
Click here to learn more about how the ISC is providing country support to Moldova in the arena of protecting children from violence.
