European officials, ministers, and social partners gathered in Moldova for a high-level conference to reaffirm their commitment to social rights as a foundation for reducing inequality, strengthening democratic institutions, and promoting decent work across Europe. Held in Chisinau and organized by Moldova together with the Council of Europe, the two-day High-Level Conference on Social Rights: The European Social Charter placed Europe’s labour and social protection framework at the center of discussions on major challenges such as demographic change, technological disruption, and evolving labour markets. The event concluded with the adoption of a final declaration, underscoring the continuing importance of the European Social Charter in shaping labour and social policy across the region.
The conference built on the momentum of the 2023 Reykjavík Declaration and the 2024 Vilnius Declaration, with participants seeking to encourage broader ratification of the European Social Charter and renew political commitment and partnerships in support of social rights. Discussions focused on how social protection and labour standards can remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world, especially as Europe faces pressures linked to ageing populations, labour shortages, digital transformation, and new forms of employment.
A major theme of the conference was the future of work, particularly the need to ensure that change driven by artificial intelligence, platform work, non-standard employment, and the green transition does not come at the expense of social justice. Peter van Rooij, ILO Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, emphasized that innovation alone is not enough and that transformation must be anchored in international labour standards so that changes in the world of work strengthen, rather than weaken, dignity and fairness for workers.
Moldova’s own national context featured prominently in the discussions, as the country faces significant demographic challenges including low fertility, an ageing population, and continued emigration. These trends are putting growing pressure on the labour market, social protection systems, and healthcare services. Against this backdrop, Moldova’s National Development Strategy, “European Moldova 2030,” was highlighted as a roadmap for building a resilient and inclusive economy aligned with European standards, with a strong focus on human capital, labour market inclusion, and improved social infrastructure.
President Maia Sandu stressed that social rights are not optional or secondary, but are as essential to democratic security as political rights such as voting. She argued that when people feel protected and supported, they are less vulnerable to manipulation and more confident in their future. Her remarks linked social rights directly to democratic resilience, suggesting that social inclusion and access to opportunity are critical not only for economic wellbeing but also for safeguarding democratic institutions.
Alongside the main conference, a high-level side event convened by the ILO, UN Women, and UNFPA explored what participants described as the “invisible accelerators” of human capital for demographic resilience. This discussion brought together government officials, employers, and workers’ organisations to examine how Moldova can better unlock human potential in the face of demographic pressures. Participants identified key priorities such as expanding access to care services, promoting lifelong learning, and improving employment opportunities for women and people with disabilities.
The side event also highlighted the importance of sexual and reproductive health services in supporting women’s ability to balance family aspirations with professional goals. Delegates noted that access to such services plays an important role in enabling workforce participation and strengthening demographic resilience. Broader discussions pointed to how gaps in care infrastructure, restrictive gender norms, and unequal access to health and training continue to shape life choices and limit labour market participation, reinforcing the idea that social rights, human capital, and inclusive policies are deeply interconnected.
Peter van Rooij noted that addressing Moldova’s demographic and labour market challenges requires unlocking the full potential of all people by removing barriers to employment and creating inclusive labour markets where women and men can participate fully throughout their lives. ILO constituents also highlighted the role of employers’ and workers’ organisations in supporting workers with family responsibilities and promoting fairer, more inclusive workplaces. They reflected on ongoing efforts, in collaboration with the ILO, to advance ratification of ILO Convention No. 156 and related measures aimed at supporting workers with family responsibilities and strengthening equality in the labour market.
