Moldova MPs Call for Equal Pay for Work of Equal Value

Female MPs are calling for genuine equal pay for work of equal value

The principle of ‘equal pay for equal work or work of equal value’, as well as Moldova’s possible accession to the International Coalition for Equal Pay (EPIC), were discussed in parliament at a meeting of female MPs from the 12th parliamentary term.

Tatiana Cucuietu

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MP Tatiana Cucuteu drew attention to the gap between women’s educational attainment and their incomes.

“Women make up more than half of the workforce in the Republic of Moldova and have a higher level of education, yet on average they continue to earn less than men. The figures speak for themselves,” said the MP.

According to Kuketu, women account for 58.2 per cent of university students and make up the majority of workers in sectors such as healthcare, social care and education.

“We have enshrined the principle of ‘equal pay for work of equal value’ in law, but today the main task is to ensure that these rules actually work,” emphasised Tatiana Cucuteu.

More women – lower wages

MP Anzhela Kutasevich cited data on the situation of women in the labour market. In 2025, the employment rate for women stood at 36.5 per cent, whilst for men it was 44.5 per cent. At the same time, the average monthly wage for women was 15.4 per cent lower than that of men. The difference amounts to 2,615 lei per month, or 31,380 lei per year.

Kutashevich also highlighted sectors where women make up the overwhelming majority of workers, yet the pay gap persists.

“We need to raise wages in education, healthcare and social care – these are key sectors where women predominate. The responsibility, professional training and value of these specialists’ work must be reflected in their pay levels,” said the MP.

Kutasevich also noted that the Republic of Moldova is preparing to implement EU Directive 2023/970 on pay transparency. According to her, for the effective implementation of the legislation, it is important to have an objective job evaluation system, for workers to have access to information on pay, and for there to be cooperation between the government, employers and trade unions.

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