Norway has announced a contribution of NOK 8.8 million to support two new civil society partners in Moldova. The funding aims to strengthen the work of these organizations in promoting democracy and reform as Moldova advances in its process toward European Union membership. State Secretary Eivind Vad Petersson visited Moldova to meet government officials and representatives of non-governmental organizations, reaffirming Norway’s support for Moldova’s democratic transition and governance reforms.
Petersson emphasized that Moldova’s stability is vital for Europe’s broader security, noting that by supporting civil society and independent media, Norway is helping build resilience and foster democratic values in the country. The contribution forms part of Norway’s long-term civilian support of NOK 350 million to Moldova in 2025, provided through the Nansen Support Programme for Ukraine. While most of this funding focuses on energy security, education, and governance, an increasing share is directed toward strengthening civil society. Additionally, Norway is providing NOK 136 million in humanitarian assistance, benefiting Ukrainian refugees and vulnerable populations in Moldova.
Two major civil society organizations, East Europe Foundation Moldova and the CONTACT Center, have received new agreements totaling NOK 45 million for the period 2025–2028. These projects aim to provide small grants, enhance institutional expertise, and build networks that empower local organizations to advance democratic engagement.
Norway is also extending support to independent media to combat disinformation. In 2025, NOK 9.5 million has been allocated to the Institute for War and Peace Reporting (IWPR) and NOK 5 million to International Media Support (IMS). These funds will assist local media outlets and NGOs committed to promoting factual reporting and countering external propaganda influences. Petersson underscored that an independent press remains essential to democracy, especially as Moldova faces ongoing information warfare from Russian sources.
Further strengthening its diplomatic presence, Norway inaugurated its embassy office in Chisinau on 26 August 2024, deepening bilateral cooperation and demonstrating long-term commitment to Moldova’s democratic and European integration path.
