Social Cohesion and Peace Initiative, Phase 2

Moldova is divided along political, linguistic, ethnic and regional lines, largely because of its complex history. Different perceptions of Moldova’s past and future, including what constitutes its national identity and diverging views on the country’s geopolitical positioning cause divisions in society and contribute to inter-generational tensions. Moldova is experiencing a demographic decline and an aging population. Socio-economic challenges affect both young and senior people, who struggle with low income and high living costs. Young people face also insufficient opportunities for decent employment, especially in rural areas, while senior people are often affected by low social consideration, partly because of their political preferences. Moldova must address these divides to become a cohesive and inclusive society.

This initiative provides an opportunity for Switzerland to contribute, with its extensive experience, in promoting sustainable peace and inclusive nation-building. It will create links with existing Swiss-funded projects in governance, economic development and health, strengthening the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, in synergy with Switzerland's Chairpersonship of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in 2026.

Outcome 1: Public institutions in target communities are more responsive and inclusive in promoting social cohesion and participatory democratic governance.

Outcome 2: Targeted population, including marginalized groups, and community structures actively contribute to improved intergroup relations and interregional cooperation, and participate in building dialogue, cohesion and peace.

Erwartete Resultate:  

Output 1.1. Public institutions enhance their capacity and knowledge in social cohesion.

Output 1.2. Public institutions and communities apply data-driven tools for monitoring and reducing social tensions.

Output 1.3. Functional and inclusive participatory mechanisms are developed in communities to support community members participation in local decision-making.

Output 2.1. Social cohesion platforms (safe spaces for dialogue, joint problem-solving and collaboration across social and regional divides) are in place and fully operational, enabling structured dialogue, joint problem-solving and community-driven initiatives.

Output 2.2. Communities across different regions, including on the left bank of Nistru/Dniester River, engage in local and/or cross-regional joint initiatives for peace and social cohesion.

Output 2.3. Women and girls strengthen their leadership and crisis management capacities to engage in intergroup dialogue and cross-community cooperation.

Resultate von früheren Phasen:   The first project phase, methodologically guided by Swisspeace, delivered the following results: establishment of 13 inclusive dialogue spaces on both banks of the Nistru/Dniester River with transformative effects over individuals, groups and communities; creation of networks of capacitated youth, seniors, civil society organizations (CSOs) and facilitators; elaboration and realisation of small projects (with local budget contributions) which provide institutionalized intergenerational solutions to local issues; establishment of local participation mechanisms; and increased interest in social cohesion from other donors and government.

Projects: UNDP “Building Sustainable Peace, Strengthening Trust and Social Cohesion in Moldova”; EU Program “Confidence Building Measures”;

Swiss funded projects: UNCHR’s Contribution to Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance for vulnerable refugees (2025-2026); UN Women and ILO’s “Enhancing Peace and Economic Prosperity through Women's Leadership and Inclusion” (2024-2028); Contribution to the “Peace Dividend Initiative” (2023-2026); “Promoting Social Cohesion through Civil Society and Mass Media” (2026-2030).

Actors: UN agencies, European Union, OSCE; Swiss implementing partners.