From Dialogue to Results: Participatory Budgeting Initiatives in Leova and Cimișlia

In Leova and Cimișlia, districts in southern Moldova, social inclusion is being built through concrete community actions. In recent months, the Association “MOTIVAȚIE, has organised public consultations, training, and strategic meetings that have already brought visible results to local communities.

The Social Services Center in Cupcui has been equipped with household appliances and assistive devices, while in Cimișlia, a home for older people and those with disabilities has been fitted with support rails residents. These changes were made through the involvement of citizens and local authorities, in a process of participatory budgeting and community dialogue.

In Iargara and Satul Nou, residents from several rural communities, including those with disabilities, and local councilors gathered to discuss the challenges that limit access to social services. Participants proposed ideas for improvement and emphasised the importance of direct involvement of those affected.

“These meetings showed us that there is a real desire to improve existing social services. Together, we can achieve great things and contribute to positive change,” said Lilia Puzderi, a councilor from Borogani village.

In May, 35 representatives of local authorities from the two districts undertook training on participatory and inclusive budgeting. Under the guidance of Parascovia Munteanu, participants explored methods for making local budgets more responsive to the needs of all residents, including those facing barriers to access and participation.

Parascovia emphasised that, “showing solidarity with people who face inclusion barriers is both a responsibility of the authorities and a civic duty of every citizen,”.

Natalia Popov, Coordinator of MOTIVAȚIE Association, added: “Involving the community in the planning of public resources is essential. When every citizen has the opportunity to participate, planning becomes more efficient and more equitable.”

In Iargara, persons with disabilities and their family members were introduced to the RESTART Reform and the public and social services available in the region. The activity encourages civic participation and to eliminate informational barriers.

“Each of us can make our voice heard! It is important to be informed about our rights and to continuously strengthen our capacities,” said Ludmila Iachim, Executive Director of MOTIVAȚIE.

The initiative was further supported by meetings with the Leova and Cimișlia district councils, where objectives and planned actions were presented. Community leaders and public officials showed openness to collaboration, recognising the importance of accessible infrastructure and inclusive attitudes.

The work of MOTIVAȚIE in Leova and Cimișlia demonstrates that inclusion is possible when we listen, cooperate, and act together.

These activities are implemented by the Association MOTIVAȚIE in partnership with People in Need Moldova, within the project “Moldova ASSIST: Improving access to quality public services and social cohesion,” funded by the European Union.