In an exclusive interview for Moldovalive, the EU Ambassador to Moldova, Janis Mazeiks, discusses the European Union’s top priorities as the country advances on its path to EU membership. From accelerating reforms and enhancing energy independence to empowering youth and civil society, Mazeiks emphasizes that Moldova’s European journey is not only political—it’s deeply personal, rooted in improving lives and building a stronger, more resilient nation.
What are the key priorities of the EU’s current agenda in Moldova, especially in the context of our EU accession path?
Moldova is part of our European family. Moldovan citizens made a clear and historic choice when they voted “yes” in the EU referendum. That moment was not just symbolic—it was a mandate for transformation; a mandate for a peaceful, prosperous, European Moldova.
Today, our shared priority is to accelerate Moldova’s path to full EU membership. This means supporting reforms in justice, public administration, support rule of law and anti-corruption, and the economy. With EU accession negotiations now underway, Moldova is not just looking toward Europe—Moldova is becoming Europe.
But beyond policies and paperwork, this process is about improving people’s lives. That is why we are investing in jobs, education, healthcare, and digitalisation, as well as roads and bridges. The Moldova Growth Plan, worth up to €1.9 billion, is our investment in Moldova’s European Future. It supports reforms and development that bring tangible improvements to people’s lives – advancing prosperity, resilience, and alignment with European standards.
How does the EU plan to further support Moldova’s energy resilience and security, particularly ahead of the next winter season?
Energy resilience is a matter of security, sovereignty, and dignity. Moldova has made enormous progress in the past two years—ending dependence on Russian energy, joining the European electricity grid (ENTSO-E), and developing local renewable sources that now account over 20% of the domestic electricity production . The EU has been proud to support this transformation with over half a billion euro in energy assistance since late 2021, including reducing energy bills for all Moldovans, after Russia’s blackmail resulted in a painful increase.
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Looking ahead, we are working together to ensure that the transition to an independent and sustainable energy sector in Moldova integrates fully to that of the EU. In this context we have agreed on a Joint Reform Agenda which lays out all key steps needed to be implemented over the next three years. These steps include, among other, supporting energy efficiency projects, upgrading infrastructure, expanding storage capacity, and helping vulnerable households cope with increasing energy costs.
Even today, with the support of the EU, energy efficiency improvements have been completed in 24 public buildings across the country, including Republican hospitals and regional medical institutions. Residential buildings are also being upgraded through targeted energy efficiency grants and credit lines. Additionally, more than 200,000 vulnerable households have received financial compensation aimed at reducing their energy costs and enhancing their living conditions.
Moldova has shown the region what true energy independence looks like—and we will continue to stand by your side.
What specific programs are in place to support young people in Moldova in areas such as education, entrepreneurship, and mobility?
Young Moldovans are already building Europe here at home. Through EU programmes like Erasmus+, thousands have studied or trained abroad, gaining skills, confidence, and friendships that last a lifetime. Others have had volunteering experiences in other countries through the EU Solidarity corps, providing them not only with an opportunity to be helpful to others, but also gaining important non-formal learning skills. And through EU4Youth, we are investing in local and transnational projects that offer young people access to employability, business tools, mentoring, and leadership opportunities.
In addition, the European Union, in partnership with the Government of Moldova, supports young entrepreneurs through various grant programmes managed by the Organisation for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA). One of them, dedicated exclusively to young entrepreneurs, is “START for Youth” programme, which provides financial assistance and mentorship to young individuals aiming to establish sustainable businesses at home. These grants, often covering up to 70% of the investment project amount, are designed to encourage entrepreneurship among the younger generation, helping them to increase their competitiveness and bring more financial security. Such support not only fosters economic growth but also empowers young Moldovans to contribute actively to their communities
Together with other development partners, we are also helping bring EU education standards closer to home by supporting schools, universities, vocational training, and digital literacy.
The EU is actively backing the government’s “Model Schools Plan,” which tackles challenges like quality of education and efficiency of the school network. In the first phase, 35 schools are being upgraded nationwide, with the EU supporting 10 of them through UNICEF and UNDP. Our focus is on inclusive renovations and modern STEAM labs (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) equipped with digital tools, while also supporting the development of a school transport system to ensure fair access to quality education.
One of our most inspiring initiatives is the Young European Ambassadors network, which brings together energetic, creative young people from Moldova and across the region who are passionate about Europe. They organise debates, workshops, school visits, and community projects—spreading knowledge, encouraging civic engagement, and connecting with their peers in every corner of the country.
Moldova’s youth are not the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today. And we believe in them.
In what ways is the EU working with local communities and civil society to strengthen democratic values and good governance?
Democracy grows in villages, towns, and in every voice that speaks up for fairness and dignity. That is why we work directly with hundreds of Moldovan communities, NGOs, Local Action Groups and civic activists to protect human rights, promote transparency, fight disinformation, and keep all levels of government accountable.
Civil society is a cornerstone of Moldova’s European path—bringing people’s voices into the heart of reforms, holding institutions to account, and ensuring that integration is not only a political process but one rooted in shared values and active citizenship. For example, through EU initiatives, civil society organizations have been empowered to actively participate in policy-making processes, ensuring that reforms align with European standards and reflect the needs of local communities.
To support this effort, the EU has also provided, during the course of 2023 and 2024 alone, over €1 million in grants directly to Local Action Groups, helping rural communities take ownership of their future, implement community development projects, create jobs, and contribute directly to Moldova’s transformation. In addition, the EU is supporting the consolidation of the National LEADER programme implemented by the Government and the National LEADER Network, strengthening cooperation among Local Action Groups and enhancing their capacity to drive inclusive rural development across the country.Through EU funded programs, we support independent media, civil society watchdogs, and local public authorities working to deliver better services and ensure no one is left behind. A strong democracy is one where everyone feels heard—and we are proud to walk this path with Moldova.
How can Moldovan citizens, especially youth and professionals, become more actively involved in EU-funded projects or initiatives?
The EU is not an abstract idea—it is something you can be part of, today. From applying for learning motilities under Erasmus+, youth exchanges or volunteering experiences under EU Solidarity Corps, as well as for other opportunities under EU4Youth, to launching a social business with EU4Business, or joining consultations on new legislation, there are many ways to get involved.
We encourage people to follow our channels and those of our implementing partners—there are calls for proposals, grants, training opportunities, and networks open to citizens, entrepreneurs, students, and civil society. The EU is about participation.
Young people in particular are becoming powerful agents of change. Also through EU-supported initiatives, they are better equipped to recognise and fight disinformation, and they are helping to raise media literacy in their communities. In schools, youth centres, and online platforms, they are building a more informed, resilient, and engaged society.
Moldova’s journey to Europe is not just political—it is personal. Every citizen has a role to play.