More than 80% of mayoralties in the Republic of Moldova could disappear after 2027 as part of a major administrative reform, according to State Secretary Alexei Buzu.
He explained that the reorganization process is already underway, but the final number of administrative-territorial units will only be known this autumn.
The reform is primarily based on the voluntary amalgamation of localities, meaning that mayoralties and local communities will decide through negotiations how they merge. So far, around 350 decisions to initiate amalgamation have already been registered, and the number continues to grow.
“What we know for sure is that after 2027, no mayoralty will exist with a population of fewer than 3,000 residents. This would mean that over 80% of mayoralties will have to consolidate,” Buzu stated.
At the same time, the government is preparing a draft law that will define the new administrative-territorial map of the country. The document is expected to be presented to Parliament this autumn, though authorities have not yet provided exact figures on the future number of mayoralties or possible changes at the district level.
The reform concept, presented on April 8, also includes increased financial incentives—reportedly tripled—for localities that voluntarily merge, with the aim of strengthening local administrations and accelerating infrastructure development.