New initiative to prepare Moldovan public sector for the EU accession negotiations

The initiative is focusing on officials from the Moldovan Deputy Prime Minister’s Office, the Bureau of European Integration, various Ministries and the Moldovan Institute of Diplomacy (MDI) and is designed to fortify Moldova’s internal EU-integration process and expand the institutional capacity of the MDI as a premier training centre for EU-related programs. 100 high level civil servants are expected to complete this study programme in 2024.

This training programme, organized by the Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV) and Estonian School of Diplomacy (ESD), will leverage the expertise and experiences of Estonia, a country with a successful EU integration history, to provide Moldovan officials with critical insights and practical knowledge. This collaboration is expected to improve the officials' proficiency in conducting accession negotiations and managing EU-integration activities effectively.

“As Moldova continues its journey towards EU membership, initiatives like this training program are essential. By investing in the development of its officials and institutions, Moldova is taking concrete steps to align itself more closely with European standards and practices, paving the way for a successful integration into the European Union”, said Eva-Maria Liimets, head of Democracy and the Rule of Law Programme at ESTDEV.

The program’s curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of topics crucial for Moldova’s European path. Key areas of focus include structural reforms, regulatory alignment with EU standards, and effective negotiation strategies. Participants in the training program will benefit from interactive sessions, case studies, and hands-on exercises designed to provide practical, actionable knowledge.