The World Bank has approved a new initiative to support Moldova's economic growth and energy security. The Moldova Supporting Economic Opportunities and Climate Transition Development Policy Operation (DPO) was endorsed by the World Bank's Board of Executive Directors on May 8, 2025. This $90 million operation aims to align Moldova with European Union standards while addressing current challenges.
This initiative builds upon previous efforts such as the Moldova Emergency Response, Resilience, and Competitiveness DPO series and the Moldova Supporting Growth and Resilience DPO. These operations are in line with the World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework for Moldova, designed to help the government respond to energy and refugee crises and enhance resilience against future shocks.
Moldova has been facing multiple crises that have impacted household purchasing power and government resources. These challenges highlight weaknesses in its growth model, emphasizing the need for economic transformation. The integration with EU markets is seen as an opportunity for a more productive economy driven by the private sector.
"Moldova has a unique opportunity to capitalize on the momentum of its EU candidacy. World Bank support will underpin critical reforms to establish a functional market economy, enhance competitiveness, equip the workforce with necessary skills, and bolster energy security,” stated Inguna Dobraja, World Bank Group Country Manager for Moldova.
The World Bank's support focuses on three main areas: enhancing private sector competitiveness; improving youth employability through dual education systems; and strengthening regulations for displaced individuals in Moldova.
This operation is part of a larger financial assistance package that includes contributions from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), EU, and additional grants from programs like M-GROW and GCFF. To date, GCFF has provided significant funding enabling concessional loans from the World Bank aimed at supporting host communities and refugees in various sectors.
Since joining the World Bank in 1992, Moldova has received over $2.3 billion across more than 70 operations covering areas such as energy reform, business development, education, health care, agriculture, water management among others. Current engagements also involve projects facilitated by IFC and MIGA focusing on financial services advisory and risk insurance.