Moldova, a landlocked Eastern European country in the northeastern Balkans, covers 33,483 km2 (12,928 sq mi) and has about 2.5 million people (January 2023). Bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south, it also shares a border with the unrecognized state of Transnistria along the Dniester River. Governed as a unitary parliamentary representative democratic republic, its capital and largest city, Chișinău, serves as the main cultural and commercial hub.
By 1905, the Romanian proportion of Bessarabia's population had decreased significantly due to colonization encouraged by Russian authorities, with the population becoming more diverse.
In November 1917, the Bessarabian parliament Sfatul Țării was elected, eventually proclaiming the Moldavian Democratic Republic within a federal Russian state.
After being under Russian administrative control since 1812, Moldova experienced a period of change in 1917 with the end of the Russian Empire.
During the 1917 Russian Revolution, Bessarabia briefly became an autonomous state within the Russian Republic. This period marked a significant shift in the region's governance and political landscape.
In January 1918, the Romanian army occupied Bessarabia at the request of the National Council, leading to the region's proclamation of independence from Russia.
In February 1918, Bessarabia declared independence during the chaos of the Russian Revolution. Later that year, it voted to integrate into Romania, a decision that was contested by Soviet Russia.
In May 1919, the Bessarabian Soviet Socialist Republic was proclaimed as a government in exile. This was part of the ongoing conflict over the region's status.
In 1919, uprisings against Romanian rule occurred in Khotyn and Bender but were suppressed by the Romanian Army.
In 1920, the Treaty of Paris recognized the union of Bessarabia with Romania, though not all signatories ratified it. Soviet Russia did not recognize this union, considering it an occupation.
In 1924, Soviet Russia established the Moldavian Autonomous Republic within the Ukrainian SSR, following disputes over Bessarabia's integration into Romania.
In 1924, after the failure of the Tatarbunary Uprising, the Moldavian Autonomous Region in Transnistria was elevated to an Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic within the Ukrainian SSR.
In August 1939, the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact was signed, with Nazi Germany recognizing Bessarabia as within the Soviet sphere of influence, leading to renewed Soviet claims on the region.
Radio Moldova, the country's first publicly funded national radio broadcaster, commenced its operations in 1939, transmitting from Chișinău, the capital city.
On 28 June 1940, the Soviet Union issued an ultimatum to Romania demanding the cession of Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina, resulting in the creation of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic.
As a result of the Molotov–Ribbentrop Pact, Romania ceded Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina to the Soviet Union in 1940, leading to the creation of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic.
Following the annexation of Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina by the Soviet Union in 1940, the Soviet government initiated a policy of encouraging Russian-speaking individuals, primarily Russians, Belarusians, and Ukrainians, to migrate to the newly established Moldavian SSR. This policy aimed to address the demographic changes caused by the war and compensate for the emigration of certain population groups during 1940 and 1944.
Ion Creangă State Pedagogical University of Chișinău, a significant teacher training institution, was founded in 1940.
On June 12-13, 1941, one of the largest deportation operations took place, resulting in the forced relocation of 18,392 individuals from the Moldavian SSR to Siberia and Kazakhstan, as part of the Soviet government's repressive policies.
In 1941, as part of the Axis invasion of the Soviet Union, Romania regained control of Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina and seized Transnistria. During this period, Romanian forces, collaborating with the Germans, deported or executed approximately 300,000 Jews, marking a dark chapter of the Holocaust.
In August 1944, the Soviet Army successfully recaptured the Moldavian region, which had been under Romanian control since 1941. This victory marked the end of the Second Jassy-Kishinev Offensive and paved the way for the re-establishment of the Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic.
Moldova came under Soviet control in 1944, marking the beginning of a new era of influence from Russia.
After the Soviet Union recaptured Moldova in 1944, the government continued its policy of encouraging Russian-speaking individuals to settle in the region, particularly in urban areas. This migration pattern aimed to offset demographic shifts and promote economic development.
Following the Soviet recapture of Moldova in 1944, several anti-Soviet resistance groups emerged, seeking to oppose Soviet rule. However, the Soviet security forces, including the NKVD and MGB, effectively suppressed these groups through arrests, executions, and deportations.
With the end of World War II in May 1945, the mobilization of Moldavian SSR inhabitants into the Soviet Army concluded. A significant number of these mobilized individuals, totaling 40,592, lost their lives during the war.
Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, a leading medical school in Moldova, was established in 1945.
A devastating famine struck Moldova in 1946, a result of a combination of factors including severe drought and the Soviet government's enforced grain quotas and requisitions. This tragic event resulted in widespread suffering, with historians attributing at least 216,000 deaths to the famine in the Moldavian SSR alone, along with approximately 350,000 cases of dystrophy.
Moldova State University, one of the main higher education institutions in Moldova, was established in 1946.
The devastating famine that began in 1946 continued to grip Moldova throughout 1947, leading to further loss of life and widespread suffering among the population.
July 1949 witnessed a significant event in the Moldavian SSR's history as another wave of mass deportations occurred between July 5th and 6th. This operation resulted in the exile of 35,796 individuals, further highlighting the Soviet Union's use of forced displacement as a tool of control.
The Academy of Sciences of Moldova, a prominent research institution in the country, was founded in 1961.
The lowest temperature ever recorded in Moldova was −35.5 °C (−31.9 °F) in Brătușeni, Edineț county in January 1963.
The Technical University of Moldova, a prominent engineering and technical university, was founded in 1964.
The earliest wines in the Mileștii Mici wine cellar's collection date back to 1969, contributing to its status as the holder of the Guinness World Record for the largest wine cellar.
In 1971, the Soviet government, as part of its efforts to develop the Moldavian SSR, allocated significant funds, exceeding one billion roubles, towards the urban development of Kishinev, today's Chișinău. This investment aimed to enhance the city's infrastructure, housing, and industrial capabilities.
"Lăutarii," a film written and directed by Moldovan filmmaker Emil Loteanu, was released in 1972 and gained recognition as one of Moldova's most celebrated cinematic works.
In 1972, the Soviet authorities cracked down on the National Patriotic Front, a dissident movement in Moldova. The leaders of the movement were arrested and sentenced to lengthy prison terms, effectively dismantling the organization.
Beginning in 1988, influenced by the broader political changes of glasnost and perestroika, Moldova, like several other Soviet republics, embarked on a path towards greater autonomy and eventual independence.
Representing the Soviet Union, Nicolae Juravschi won two Olympic medals at the 1988 Seoul Games.
On August 27, 1989, a pivotal event in Moldova's history took place with the Grand National Assembly in Chișinău. Organized by the Popular Front of Moldova (FPM), this mass demonstration played a crucial role in advocating for Moldovan identity and language rights, ultimately leading to the adoption of a language law on August 31st. This law declared the Moldovan language written in the Latin script as the official language of the Moldavian SSR and acknowledged its connection to the Romanian language.
As of 1989, Transnistria had a significant population of Russian-speaking inhabitants, with Ukrainians comprising 28% and Russians 26% of the region's demographics. This linguistic and cultural distinction played a significant role in the region's decision to seek independence from Moldova.
In a significant step towards democracy, Moldova held its first democratic elections in February and March 1990. These elections led to the appointment of Mircea Snegur as Speaker of the Parliament and Mircea Druc as Prime Minister, marking a turning point in the country's political landscape.
On June 23, 1990, the Moldavian Parliament took a significant step toward independence by adopting the Declaration of Sovereignty. This declaration asserted the supremacy of Moldovan laws over those of the Soviet Union, signaling a growing assertiveness of Moldovan identity and a desire for self-determination.
On August 16, 1990, the predominantly Russian-speaking region of Transnistria, located east of the Dniester River in Moldova, declared its independence from the newly independent Moldova. This declaration was fueled by concerns among the region's Russian-speaking population about the rise of nationalism in Moldova and a desire to protect their interests and cultural identity.
Since 1990, the region of Transnistria on the east bank of the Dniester River has been under the de facto control of a breakaway government, despite Moldova's independence.
The year 1990 witnessed the eruption of the Transnistria War, a pivotal event shaping Moldova's post-Soviet trajectory and leading to a protracted conflict.
Since 1990, Moldova's population has experienced a significant decline, estimated to be nearly 33%.
Established in 1990, the Ecological Movement of Moldova, a non-governmental organization, emerged with the goal of addressing and reversing the environmental degradation that occurred during the Soviet period.
On 27 August 1991, amid the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the Moldavian SSR declared its independence and became known as Moldova.
On August 27, 1991, following the unsuccessful coup attempt against the Soviet government, Moldova declared its independence from the collapsing Soviet Union, marking a pivotal moment in the nation's history and its transition to a sovereign state.
In December 1991, Moldova became a founding member of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), an organization formed after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. This move, along with the official recognition of Moldova's independence on December 25th, solidified the country's transition to a sovereign nation on the international stage. Despite joining the CIS, Moldova maintained its neutrality by choosing not to participate in its military branch.
The Academy of Economic Studies of Moldova was established in 1991 and has gained recognition in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
During the winter of 1991-1992, clashes erupted between Transnistrian forces, who received support from elements of the Russian 14th Guards Army, and the Moldovan police. These confrontations marked the escalation of tensions and the prelude to a larger military conflict between Moldova and Transnistria.
Moldova declared its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
Moldova declared its independence in 1991.
On January 2, 1992, Moldova took a significant step in transitioning to a market economy by liberalizing prices. However, this liberalization led to a period of rapid inflation, posing economic challenges for the newly independent nation.
On March 2, 1992, Moldova achieved another milestone in its journey as an independent nation by gaining formal recognition as a member of the United Nations. This membership granted Moldova a voice and presence in the international community, further solidifying its sovereignty.
The armed conflict between Moldova and Transnistria, which escalated in 1992, concluded in July 1992 with a ceasefire agreement. This agreement brought an end to the fighting and led to the establishment of a demilitarized security zone along the Dniester River, monitored by a peacekeeping force comprising Russian, Transnistrian, and Moldovan personnel. Despite the ceasefire, the underlying political issues remained unresolved.
On October 30, 1992, Moldova ratified the Treaty on Conventional Armed Forces in Europe, demonstrating its commitment to arms control.
The unrecognized breakaway state of Transnistria, located in eastern Moldova, established close diplomatic, military, and economic ties with Russia in 1992. Over a thousand Russian soldiers are stationed in the region.
In 1992, Moldova strengthened its global standing by joining key international organizations, including the United Nations, OSCE, World Bank, and IMF.
The Transnistria War concluded in 1992, leaving a legacy of division and prompting Moldova to pursue peaceful resolution through international mediation and dialogue.
In 1992, Moldova gained independence from the Soviet Union and began transitioning to a market economy. Despite strong economic performance over the past two decades, the country remains one of the poorest in Europe. This significant shift in 1992 marked the start of Moldova's efforts to establish a new economic system.
In 1993, the government of Moldova took a step towards economic stability by introducing its national currency, the Moldovan leu. This move replaced the temporary currency, the cupon, which had been in circulation since the country's transition from the Soviet ruble.
Moldova joined the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's Partnership for Peace program on March 16, 1994, signifying its interest in cooperating with NATO on security matters.
Moldova acceded to the provisions of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons in October 1994 in Washington, D.C., further solidifying its stance against the proliferation of nuclear weapons.
On December 23, 1994, the Moldovan Parliament passed a significant law recognizing the unique status of Gagauzia, an autonomous region within Moldova. The "Law on the Special Legal Status of Gagauzia" aimed to address the region's distinct cultural and linguistic identity, granting it a degree of self-governance within the framework of Moldova.
Moldova participated in the Winter Olympics for the first time in 1994, marking the nation's entry into the prestigious global sporting event held in Lillehammer.
The Moldova national football team made its debut on the international stage in 1994, marking the beginning of its participation in international football competitions.
The 1994 parliamentary elections in Moldova resulted in a victory for the Agrarian Party, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. This victory diminished the influence of nationalist parties and paved the way for policies aimed at mitigating ethnic tensions.
In 1994, Moldova joined NATO's Partnership for Peace program, a significant step in enhancing its security cooperation with Western countries. This decision reflected Moldova's commitment to fostering international partnerships and promoting stability in the region.
In 1994, Moldova joined NATO's Partnership for Peace program, fostering cooperation with NATO and promoting regional stability.
In 1994, Moldova adopted its constitution, establishing itself as a parliamentary republic with a president as head of state and a prime minister as head of government.
In 1994, Moldova adopted a new constitution, establishing the framework for its government, including an independent Constitutional Court and provisions for amendments.
In May 1995, Moldova signed the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly Convention, marking a step towards closer ties with other post-Soviet states.
Moldova's commitment to democratic values and human rights was further demonstrated by its accession to the Council of Europe on June 29, 1995. This membership marked a significant step in the country's integration into the European community and its pursuit of European standards and principles.
July 1995 marked Moldova's admission to the Council of Europe, signifying its commitment to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Following the passage of the law recognizing Gagauzia's special status in 1994, the region formally constituted its autonomy in 1995, marking a significant step in Moldova's efforts to accommodate its diverse regional identities and aspirations for self-governance.
Petru Lucinschi emerged victorious in the 1996 presidential elections in Moldova, marking a transition in leadership from the country's first president, Mircea Snegur.
In 1996, Moldova became a member of the Francophonie, demonstrating its commitment to French language and culture, and promoting linguistic diversity.
On January 15, 1997, Petru Lucinschi assumed the presidency of Moldova, succeeding Mircea Snegur. Lucinschi, who had previously served as the First Secretary of the Moldavian Communist Party from 1989 to 1991, became the country's second president.
In 2000, Moldova underwent a significant political transformation with the amendment of its Constitution. This amendment transitioned the country from a presidential republic to a parliamentary republic, reducing the president's executive powers and shifting decision-making authority to the parliament. As part of this change, the method of electing the president was altered from a direct popular vote to an indirect election by the parliament.
The year 2000 saw a significant constitutional change in Moldova, altering the presidential election process, a move later deemed unconstitutional.
In April 2001, the Party of Communists of the Republic of Moldova, which had been re-established in 1993, won the parliamentary elections and elected Vladimir Voronin as president. This marked the first time a non-reformed Communist Party had returned to power in a post-Soviet state.
After experiencing a severe economic crisis for nearly a decade, Moldova's economy began to show signs of recovery in 2001. The country experienced steady annual growth, ranging from 5% to 10%, until 2008.
Moldova joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, further integrating into the global trading system and demonstrating its commitment to free trade principles.
Casa Mariorei, a shelter in Chișinău providing support to women affected by domestic violence, was established in 2002, offering services such as shelter, healthcare, legal advice, and psychosocial support.
In 2002, Moldova became a member of the International Criminal Court, reaffirming its dedication to international law and the pursuit of justice for grave crimes.
In 2002, there were 258,600 Moldovans living in Ukraine.
The Moldovan pop band O-Zone gained international recognition in 2003 with their hit song "Dragostea Din Tei", topping music charts worldwide.
The first edition of the Moldova President's Cup, a prestigious cycling race, took place in 2004, further establishing the event in the country's sporting calendar.
Three European bison from Poland were reintroduced to Moldova in August 2005, marking the return of the species after an absence since the 18th century.
Moldova participated in the Eurovision Song Contest for the first time in 2005, represented by the band Zdob și Zdub, who secured a sixth-place finish.
Since 2005, Mileștii Mici in Moldova has held the Guinness World Record for the largest wine cellar by number of bottles, with a collection that includes wines dating back to 1969.
In 2005, Moldova and the European Union formalized an action plan to deepen cooperation, marking a significant step towards closer integration.
Natalia Barbu represented Moldova in the Eurovision Song Contest 2007 in Helsinki with her song "Fight", narrowly qualifying for the final and ultimately placing tenth with 109 points.
Moldova experienced its highest ever temperature of 41.5 °C (106.7 °F) in Camenca in July 2007.
Vasile Tarlev formed a new government in Moldova in March 2008, succeeding Zinaida Greceanîi as Prime Minister.
Moldova enjoyed a period of economic growth from 2001, with rates averaging between 5% and 10% annually, until the onset of the global financial crisis in 2008, which had a widespread impact on economies worldwide, including Moldova's.
The Communist Party won the April 2009 parliamentary elections, but the results were contested, leading to widespread protests.
Four Moldovan parties, the Liberal Democratic Party, Liberal Party, Democratic Party, and Our Moldova Alliance, formed the Alliance For European Integration in August 2009, aiming to counter the Communist Party's influence.
Following Voronin's resignation, Mihai Ghimpu, the newly elected parliament speaker, became acting president in September 2009 and initiated constitutional reform efforts.
After eight years in power, the Party of Communists of the Republic of Moldova faced political challenges. Following the controversial April 2009 elections and the formation of the Alliance For European Integration, President Vladimir Voronin resigned in September 2009.
In 2009, Moldova joined the Convention on Cybercrime established by the Council of Europe.
The film "Wedding in Bessarabia" premiered in 2009, a joint production between Romania, Moldova, and Luxembourg, marking a notable instance of international collaboration in Moldovan cinema.
As part of its support for Moldova's European integration efforts, Poland provided a loan of US$15 million in February 2010.
In April 2010, Romania offered Moldova development aid worth €100 million and doubled the number of scholarships for Moldovan students to 5,000.
In September 2010, the European Parliament approved a grant of €90 million to Moldova to supplement loans and support from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.
The constitutional referendum, aimed at approving the proposed reforms, failed in September 2010, leading to the dissolution of parliament and new elections being scheduled.
New parliamentary elections were held in November 2010 after the failure of the constitutional referendum.
In December 2010, Marian Lupu was elected as the Speaker of the Parliament and assumed the role of acting President of the Republic of Moldova.
In 2010, Oldowan flint tools dating back 800,000 to 1.2 million years were discovered at Bayraki, highlighting the prehistoric significance of Moldova.
In 2010, following Moldova's independence, a significant step was taken to address the legacy of the Soviet period. The Commission for the Study of the Communist Dictatorship in Moldova was established, aiming to investigate and assess the actions of the Soviet regime and its impact on the Moldavian SSR.
Moldova's Eurovision entry in 2010, "Run Away" by SunStroke Project featuring Olia Tira, became an internet meme thanks to the dance moves of saxophonist Sergey Stepanov, who was nicknamed "Epic Sax Guy".
The 2010 census in Russia recorded 156,400 Moldovans residing within its borders.
The Moldovan Ministry of Justice recognized the Islamic League of Moldova as the representative body for Moldovan Muslims in 2011.
Zdob și Zdub represented Moldova for the third time in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011, finishing in twelfth place.
The first joint meeting between the Romanian and Moldovan governments took place in March 2012, resulting in several bilateral agreements.
Nicolae Timofti was elected as the president of Moldova in a parliamentary vote in March 2012, becoming the first full-time president since Vladimir Voronin's resignation in 2009.
Moldova's Border Police, previously a military branch, was placed under the control of the Ministry of Internal Affairs in 2012, signifying a shift in its organizational structure.
In 2012, a security zone incident in Transnistria resulted in a civilian death, escalating tensions between Moldova and Russia and highlighting the fragility of the peace.
In 2012, Russia issued a decree recognizing Moldova's sovereignty.
The Alliance for European Integration lost a no-confidence vote, leading to the formation of the Pro-European Coalition in May 2013.
In August 2013, construction began on a new pipeline between Moldova and Romania aimed at reducing Moldova's reliance on Russian gas supplies.
At a summit in Vilnius, Moldova signed an association agreement with the European Union, focusing on the EU's Eastern Partnership initiative, on November 29, 2013.
In November 2013, the Association Agreement between Moldova and the European Union was drafted in Vilnius.
After being initially drafted in November 2013, Moldova officially signed the Association Agreement with the European Union in Brussels on June 27, 2014.
In November 2014, the United States donated 39 Humvees and 10 trailers, valued at US$700,000, to the Moldovan Armed Forces. These vehicles were intended for the 22nd Peacekeeping Battalion of the Moldovan National Army and aimed to enhance the capabilities of Moldovan peacekeeping contingents.
Moldova's central bank took control of three banks, including the country's largest lender, Banca de Economii, in November 2014, due to large-scale fraud involving fraudulent loans.
According to the 2014 census, ethnic Moldovans constituted approximately 75% of Moldova's population. Significant minorities included Romanians (7%), Ukrainians (6.57%), Gagauzians (4.57%), and Russians (4.06%).
As of 2014, approximately 15% of Moldova's population spoke Russian in addition to the national language, Romanian.
In 2014, a referendum in Gagauzia showed that almost 99% of the population opposed closer ties with Europe and favored joining the Eurasian Economic Union led by Russia.
Moldova conducted its most recent national census in 2014, excluding Transnistria.
The 2014 Moldovan census marked the first time data was collected on the languages spoken by residents.
The provided information is sourced from the Moldovan census conducted in 2014.
According to the 2014 census, Eastern Orthodox Christianity was the dominant religion in Moldova, with 90% of the population identifying with this faith.
The musical project Carla's Dreams emerged in Moldova in 2015, gaining significant popularity.
Moldova and Romania entered into a military agreement in 2015 with the goal of strengthening regional security. This agreement aligns with Moldova's strategy to reform its military and enhance cooperation with neighboring countries.
Starting in 2015, Romania began providing 5,000 scholarships to Moldovan students pursuing education in Romanian high schools and universities. Additionally, Romania funded a program to renovate and equip kindergartens in Moldova, benefiting over half of the preschool population.
Irina Vlakh, a socialist candidate backed by Russia, won the Gagauzian gubernatorial election in 2015 with the support of slightly over half of the voters.
Radu Albot achieved success in doubles tennis by winning the Istanbul Open doubles title in 2015, further demonstrating his talent in the sport.
In 2015, Moldova's GDP per capita was recorded at $2,749 (USD). This year marked the beginning of a significant economic growth period, leading to a near doubling of GDP per capita by 2022.
Between 2015 and 2022, Moldova saw significant growth in agricultural production, particularly in the areas of vegetable and fruit production.
Following a period of instability and protests, a new government led by Pavel Filip was established in January 2016, but concerns about corruption and lack of transparency remained.
In March 2016, Moldova's Constitutional Court ruled that the 2000 amendment regarding presidential elections was unconstitutional, reinstating the direct election system.
On December 19, 2016, the Moldovan parliament passed a reform to gradually raise the retirement age from 57 to 63 for women and from 62 to 63 for men. This change was part of an assistance package agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund and was designed to be fully implemented by 2028.
Pro-Russian candidate Igor Dodon won the December 2016 presidential election, marking a shift in the country's political landscape.
Carla's Dreams' song "Sub Pielea Mea" achieved international success in 2016, reaching the top of the charts in Moldova and Russia.
In 2016, Moldova recorded one of the highest alcohol consumption rates globally, with 15.2 liters of pure alcohol consumed per capita. This highlighted a serious health concern within the country.
Moldova adopted the National Cyber Security Program, spanning from 2016 to 2020.
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights issued recommendations in 2016 urging Moldova to improve its handling of hate crimes, including better recording of bias motivations and enhanced victim support systems.
Carla's Dreams, known for their anonymous performances with painted faces, released their latest album in 2017, maintaining their air of mystery.
SunStroke Project returned to represent Moldova in the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest with their song "Hey Mama", achieving a third-place finish.
Since 2018, the number of deaths in Moldova has surpassed the number of live births, though this gap has been narrowing since 2021.
Ion Chicu became Prime Minister of Moldova in November 2019, leading a pro-Russian government.
Moldova began testing 5G technology in 2019 in preparation for a potential future rollout.
Moldova initiated discussions with Belarus in 2019 to establish a bison exchange program, aiming to further expand its wisent population and promote conservation efforts.
The total fertility rate in Moldova in 2019 was 1.78 children per woman. There were 12.2 live births and 13.7 deaths per 1,000 inhabitants.
Radu Albot triumphed in the ATP singles Delray Beach Open in 2019, securing a significant victory for Moldovan tennis.
In 2019, the average number of children per woman of childbearing age in Moldova was 1.78. The total number of deaths in 2022 decreased by 20.5% compared to 2019.
Moldova's healthcare spending increased to 6% of its annual GDP in 2022, up from 4.9% in 2019.
In 2019, the main causes of death in Moldova were ischemic heart disease, strokes, hypertensive heart disease, liver cirrhosis, trachea, bronchus and lung cancers.
Moldova experienced a constitutional crisis in 2019, marked by a period of dual power from June 7th to 15th, stemming from disagreements over the parliament's failure to form a government and the president's authority to call snap elections.
In 2019, Moldova recorded 31,000 non-resident tourists, reflecting its status as one of the least-visited countries in Europe. This year served as a benchmark for comparing future tourism growth.
In 2019, Moldova received a Forest Landscape Integrity Index mean score of 2.2/10, ranking it 158th globally, reflecting the state of its forest ecosystems.
Ilan Șhor, a pro-Russian politician and businessman, fled to Israel in 2019 after being convicted in absentia of fraud and money laundering in Moldova and sentenced to 15 years in prison.
Ilan Shor, a businessman, fled to Israel in 2019 after being found guilty in absentia of fraud and money laundering charges in Moldova. He received a 15-year prison sentence.
The World Health Organization began tracking COVID-19 cases in Moldova in January 2020.
The COVID-19 pandemic reached Moldova in March 2020, prompting the government to declare a "national red code alert," ban gatherings, close educational institutions, and implement travel restrictions. By March 17th, a state of emergency was declared, and the country closed its borders with Romania and Ukraine.
Moldova extended the ban on gatherings of over 50 people until April 2020 in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
Pro-European candidate Maia Sandu won the November 2020 presidential election, defeating incumbent Igor Dodon and becoming Moldova's first female president.
Prime Minister Ion Chicu, who had led a pro-Russian government since November 2019, resigned in December 2020, a day before Maia Sandu's presidential inauguration.
The year 2020 witnessed political instability in Moldova as the prime minister and government resigned, leading to challenges in forming a new government.
The infant mortality rate in Moldova in 2020 was 8.7 deaths per 1,000 live births.
Reporters Without Borders observed in 2020 that Moldova's media, while diverse, exhibited extreme polarization, mirroring the country's political climate and the influence of oligarchs.
Moldova's National Cyber Security Program, implemented from 2016 to 2020, concluded.
In 2020, Moldova's Press Freedom Index ranking stood at 89th, highlighting concerns about the influence of oligarchs and political polarization within the country's media landscape.
In 2020, Moldova experienced a relatively low net emigration of 7,000 people. This year also saw Maia Sandu elected as president, with significant support from the Moldovan diaspora.
In 2020, Maia Sandu was elected president of Moldova on a pro-Western and anti-corruption platform, leading the country towards closer ties with the European Union and NATO.
As of 2020, there were approximately 285,000 Moldovans residing in Romania.
President Sandu dissolved the Parliament in April 2021 following the Constitutional Court's decision to end the state of emergency, paving the way for snap parliamentary elections.
In June 2021, President Sandu authorized the formation of an independent body dedicated to monitoring corruption. This initiative stemmed from concerns over the slow pace of the state's institutions in addressing the issue.
The pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) secured a landslide victory in the snap parliamentary elections held in July 2021.
In July 2021, Moldova held parliamentary elections, resulting in a majority for the Party of Action and Solidarity, marking a significant political shift.
In August 2021, the Natalia Gavrilița-led cabinet, formed entirely of members from the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), assumed office after securing 61 votes.
Zdob și Zdub represented Moldova again in the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest, achieving a similar result to their 2005 performance by finishing sixth.
The United States provided assistance to Moldova in 2021 by equipping a digitization laboratory. This support enabled the restoration and preservation of significant Moldovan films, encompassing both feature films and documentaries.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) substantially increased its financial assistance to Moldova in 2021, reflecting its commitment to supporting the country's economic development.
Since 2021, Moldova has seen a reduction in the gap between the number of deaths and live births.
Moldova officially recorded eight hate crimes in 2021, with seven cases resulting in successful convictions, indicating efforts to address hate-motivated offenses.
Moldova experienced a 20.5% decrease in the overall number of deaths compared to 2021.
In 2021, net emigration from Moldova remained high at 45,000 people. The Party of Action and Solidarity, led by Maia Sandu, won the parliamentary election with substantial support from the diaspora.
In 2021, following the COVID-19 pandemic, Moldova's annual GDP growth rebounded to 13.9%. This recovery was short-lived due to subsequent geopolitical events.
In 2021, a leaked Russian plan revealed intentions to destabilize Moldova by supporting pro-Russian groups, exploiting the Orthodox Church, and leveraging natural gas supplies.
In 2021, Moldova's wine export market shifted significantly, with the EU becoming the main purchaser. Russia's share dropped to 10 percent from 80 percent in the early 2000s, illustrating Moldova's pivot towards European markets.
In 2021, Moldova exported $140 million in wine, becoming the world's 21st largest wine exporter. The ICT sector also flourished, contributing over 10 percent of the GDP, with significant exports to various countries.
As of 2021, agriculture accounted for 12% of Moldova's overall exports and 21% of employment, highlighting the sector's importance in the national economy.
According to the 2021 census, Canada had a Moldovan diaspora population of 20,470.
A document reportedly authored by Russia's FSB in 2021, titled "Strategic objectives of the Russian Federation in the Republic of Moldova", outlines a 10-year strategy to destabilize Moldova using methods such as energy manipulation, political influence, and leveraging the Orthodox Church, although Russia denies the existence of such a plan.
Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita emphasized the urgency for Moldova to expedite its accession to the European Union in February 2022, despite facing opposition from Russia.
Following the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine in February 2022, Moldova witnessed a large-scale influx of Ukrainian refugees seeking safety and refuge within its borders.
Moldova formally submitted its application to join the European Union on March 3, 2022.
The Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe formally recognized Transnistria as a Moldovan territory under Russian occupation in March 2022, reflecting the ongoing tensions and geopolitical complexities in the region.
Moldova formally submitted its application to join the European Union in March 2022, marking a significant step towards its goal of achieving full membership by 2030.
In April 2022, attacks targeted Transnistrian infrastructure, including the destruction of radio antennas broadcasting Russian programs and an assault on the premises of the region's state security service.
In May 2022, Moldova enacted legislation making incitement to religious and ethnic hatred illegal.
Moldova was granted official candidate status by the European Union's leaders on June 23, 2022.
In June 2022, Moldova was granted candidate status for membership in the European Union, marking a significant step in its pro-Western and anti-corruption efforts under President Maia Sandu.
Amendments to Moldova's Criminal Code, reflecting recommendations from the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights, were adopted by Parliament and published on June 3, 2022, aiming to address hate crime legislation.
Moldova's pursuit of European integration reached a milestone in June 2022 when EU leaders officially designated the country as a candidate for membership.
By July 2022, Moldova had approximately 3 million internet users, representing about 76% of the population. This highlighted the well-developed digital infrastructure in the country, with 98% 4G coverage.
By July 2022, over 3 million people in Moldova, representing 76% of the population, were internet users.
In July 2022, the United Nations Development Programme announced an initiative to preserve Moldova's film heritage. Using advanced equipment, they will transfer over 1,600 films from the Moldova-Film archive for cultural preservation and future generations.
During a meeting in October 2022, EU representatives welcomed Moldova's ratification of the Istanbul Convention, adoption of hate crime legislation, and efforts to reform its Electoral Code, while encouraging further improvements.
In October 2022, debris from a Russian missile, aimed at a Ukrainian dam on the Nistru river, landed in Naslavcea, Moldova, causing damage to homes but no injuries.
In October 2022, Moldovan Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatii stated that 90% of the country's military equipment was outdated and of Soviet origin, dating back to the 1960s and 1980s.
In 2022, the US Department of State estimated that about 7% of Moldova's non-Orthodox population identified as non-religious. Other religious groups included Baptists, Jehovah's Witnesses, Pentecostals (each with 15,000-30,000 members), Jews (approx. 20,000), and Muslims (15,000-17,000).
In 2022, the Moldovan government revoked the broadcasting licenses of six television stations accused of spreading pro-Russian propaganda and disinformation about the invasion of Ukraine, violating the country's Audiovisual Services Code.
As of 2022, Moldova offered universal healthcare through a mandatory health insurance program. The country had a doctor-to-patient ratio of 48.4 doctors per 10,000 people and 91 medical staff units. Around 53% of urban residents aged 16 and above rated their health as "good" or "very good," in contrast to 33% in rural areas. Moldova allocated 6% of its GDP to healthcare.
As of 2022, approximately 122,000 Moldovans were residing in Germany.
During the 2022-2023 academic year, Moldova had 1,218 primary and secondary schools, 90 vocational schools, 21 higher education institutions, and 12 private higher education institutions, with a total of 437,000 students. The literacy rate for those aged 15 and above was estimated at 99.6%.
During the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, public opinion polls showed that while a significant portion of both the Romanian and Moldovan populations supported the idea of unification, most believed that it was not the right time.
In 2022, Moldova began importing electricity from Romania, further reducing its dependence on energy produced from Russian gas in Transnistria.
In 2022, Moldova experienced a net emigration of 43,000 people. The average number of children per woman of childbearing age was 1.69, significantly lower than the replacement rate of 2.1.
In 2022, Moldova had one of the lowest Human Development Indexes in Europe, ranking 76th in the world.
In 2022, Moldova's agricultural production continued to grow, building on the progress made since 2015, particularly in the sectors of vegetable and fruit production.
In 2022, Moldova's population density was 82.8 inhabitants per square kilometer. The average life expectancy was 71.5 years.
In 2022, despite challenges from the invasion of Ukraine, Moldova saw an increase in foreign visitors, with 36,100 non-resident tourists, up from 31,000 in 2019, making it one of the least-visited countries in Europe but highlighting its growing appeal as a tourism destination.
This entry provides information about the breakdown of deaths in Moldova in 2022, categorized by the primary causes of death.
The primary causes of death in Moldova in 2022 were circulatory system diseases (58%), cancerous tumors (15.8%), digestive tract diseases (7.5%), external causes (4.8%), and other causes (13.9%).
The 2022 US State Department Human Rights Report acknowledged Moldova's investigations into human rights abuses and corruption but pointed out slow progress in prosecuting officials, with no convictions secured in high-profile cases by year's end.
Moldova's Corruption Perceptions Index score rose to 39 in 2022, reflecting an improvement in perceived corruption levels within the country.
Moldova experienced significant economic difficulties throughout 2022, primarily stemming from its dependence on Russian energy resources. The conflict in Ukraine exacerbated these challenges, leading to a surge in inflation and a slowdown in economic growth.
In its 2022/23 report, Amnesty International raised concerns about torture in detention, limited progress in addressing past human rights abuses by law enforcement, restrictions on public assemblies, and discrimination against LGBTI individuals in Moldova.
In 2022, the average life expectancy in Moldova was 71.5 years, with 67.2 years for men and 75.7 years for women. The total fertility rate was 1.69 children per woman, a decrease from 1.78 in 2019 and below the replacement rate. There were 10.6 live births and 14.2 deaths per 1,000 inhabitants, with an infant mortality rate of 9.0 per 1,000 live births.
In January 2023, the population of Moldova was approximately 2.5 million. Moldova is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordered by Romania and Ukraine. Its capital is Chișinău, which is also the largest city and main cultural and commercial center.
January 2023 saw a missile land near Briceni, Moldova, during a wave of Russian missile strikes targeting Ukraine.
As of January 1, 2023, Moldova's estimated population was approximately 2,512,800, marking a decrease of about 52,300 from the beginning of 2022.
On February 2, 2023, Moldova passed a law establishing criminal liability for activities related to separatism. This includes prison sentences for actions such as inciting or financing separatism, plotting against Moldova, and gathering or stealing information that could undermine the country's sovereignty, independence, or territorial integrity.
In February 2023, an attempted coup involving Russian-backed actors, including trained saboteurs, was thwarted in Moldova, exposing Russian efforts to destabilize the country.
Natalia Gavrilița stepped down from her position as Prime Minister of Moldova in February 2023. Dorin Recean was chosen as her successor.
Russia cancelled a 2012 decree that acknowledged Moldova's sovereignty in February 2023.
A memorandum from March 29, 2023, detailed the aims of the EU Partnership Mission in Moldova. The mission, with an anticipated two-year mandate, intends to bolster the resilience of Moldova's security sector in crisis management and against hybrid threats, including cybersecurity, foreign information manipulation, and interference. The mission will consist of up to 40 police, customs, and judicial personnel, with support from Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Germany, Poland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Portugal, Romania, and Denmark.
As of March 2023, Romanian is the sole official language of Moldova, replacing all previous references to "Moldovan" in the constitution and legal documents.
On April 24, 2023, the European Union, as part of its Common Security and Defence Policy, established a Partnership Mission in Moldova. The mission's objective is to assist the Moldovan government in addressing hybrid threats stemming from the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Moldova expressed serious concerns in April 2023 when Russian military personnel stationed in Transnistria conducted military maneuvers without prior coordination or consent from the Moldovan government.
In May 2023, the Moldovan government declared its intention to withdraw from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and immediately suspend its participation.
In June 2023, the Constitutional Court of Moldova took the significant step of outlawing the pro-Russian Șor Party, deeming it unconstitutional.
As of June 2023, Moldova no longer imports oil or natural gas from Russia and has been granted access to the European Union's joint gas purchasing platform, marking a significant shift in its energy policy.
Approximately 500 LGBT activists and supporters participated in a Pride parade in Chișinău on June 18, 2023, marking the first time the event did not require extensive police protection from protesters.
Poland delivered u20ac8 million worth of military equipment, including drones and explosive ordnance disposal equipment, to Moldova in June 2023 to bolster the country's internal security.
The European Union unveiled a €1.6 billion support and investment package for Moldova in June 2023. Additionally, European and Moldovan telecom operators agreed to reduce mobile data and voice roaming charges in Moldova, and Moldova joined the EU's platform for joint gas purchases.
Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean announced in June 2023 that the nation had successfully transitioned away from its reliance on Russian oil and natural gas, achieving complete energy independence.
The World Health Organization's tracking period for confirmed COVID-19 cases and deaths in Moldova ended in June 2023.
Following media reports of potential espionage activities, the Moldovan government summoned the Russian ambassador in July 2023, and subsequently expelled 45 Russian diplomats and embassy staff, citing "hostile actions" aimed at destabilizing Moldova.
In July 2023, Evghenia Guțul, the leader of Gagauzia, expressed thanks to Ilan Shor, the exiled leader of the banned pro-Russian Șor Party in Moldova, for his support and indicated a desire for stronger diplomatic relations with Russia.
In July 2023, Moldova established a network of 20 seed libraries with over 1,000 seeds across the country, aiming to improve agricultural biodiversity and climate resilience with support from various international organizations.
July 2023 saw the death of Oleg Khorzhan, a pro-Russian opposition politician in Transnistria, found dead in his home under suspicious circumstances, prompting an investigation by Moldovan authorities.
Moldova passed a law in July 2023 to denounce the agreement that formalized its membership in the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly.
As of July 2023, over 2 million vaccine doses had been administered in Moldova, according to the World Health Organization.
Six television stations: Orizont TV, ITV, Prime, Publika TV, Canal 2, and Canal 3, were banned in October 2023 by the Moldovan government for allegedly undermining local elections and blocking several Russian media outlets, including TASS and Interfax news agencies.
Formal negotiations for Moldova's accession to the European Union commenced on December 13, 2023.
On 13 December 2023, Moldova began accession talks with the European Union, furthering its goal of EU membership.
As of 2023, Moldova is recognized for having some of the fastest and most affordable internet globally, with a high gigabit coverage ranking.
Moldova's Press Freedom Index ranking improved significantly to 28th in 2023, as reported by Reporters Without Borders, attributed partly to government reforms easing access to official information for journalists.
In 2023, Moldova ranked 60th in the world on the Global Innovation Index, reflecting its standing in global innovation metrics.
In 2023, Freedom House, an international watchdog organization, designated Moldova as "partly free," acknowledging its competitive elections and protected freedoms but highlighting concerns about corruption, judicial deficiencies, and the rule of law.
The IMF predicts that in 2023, Moldova's economy will improve from a 1.5% contraction to a growth of 1.5%, suggesting a potential recovery from the economic setbacks of the previous year.
A referendum concerning Moldova's potential membership in the European Union is scheduled for the fall of 2024, with residents of Transnistria permitted to vote in other areas of Moldova if they choose.
The next national census in Moldova is scheduled for 2024.
Moldova is considering a bid to initiate the rollout of 5G technology in 2024.
Moldova is set to enact new cybersecurity legislation on January 1, 2025, drafted with assistance from the European Union's Cybersecurity Rapid Assistance Unit.
By 2025, Moldova is expected to complete improved connectivity projects, enhancing its energy independence and integration with European energy markets.
The year 2028 marked the anticipated completion of a progressive increase in the retirement age in Moldova, a reform initiated in December 2016.
Moldova has set the year 2030 as its target for joining the European Union.
The year 2030 has been set as the target for Moldova's full accession to the European Union, with support from the United Nations Development Programme in implementing necessary reforms.
Projections suggest that by 2035, Moldova's population could be reduced to half of its 1990 level.