European Local Democracy Week starts in Moldova

Chisinau, 12 October /MOLDPRES/- The Joint Integrated Local Development Programme (JILDP), in cooperation with central authorities, will carry out a week-long string of activities to improve communication between Moldovan citizens and their local mayoralties.

Over 100 activities in 30 mayoralties will help citizens get a better understanding of the local budget and expenses, know their local councilors and learn how to make appointments to their mayor.

The activities, financed by the Danish government, are held within the European Local Democracy Week, at an initiative by the State Chancellery.

At a today news conference, Government Deputy Secretary General Sergiu Ceaus encouraged local authorities to continue such initiatives, as “this is the only way to set up efficient communication ties with citizens”. “We aim to enhance local government through actions that promote a transparent decision-making process and improve the community dialogue,” Ceaus said.

UN Resident Coordinator for Moldova Dafina Gercheva said Moldovan elderly and handicapped people currently had limited access to taking decisions locally. “The empowerment of ethnic and religious minorities will help Moldova achieve a better regional and national development,” Gherceva said.

The European Local Democracy Week will be held in Moldova on 12-18 October. The event aims to improve understanding between local authorities and citizens, and inform the latter on all the activities carried out by mayoralties.

(Reporter A. Buzu, editor A. Raileanu)