The initiative is designed to recognize citizens aged 65 and older who continue to engage in professional, civic, scientific, cultural, or entrepreneurial activities and have achieved notable results in their respective fields.
According to the contest rules, candidates may include individuals who have distinguished themselves in fields such as medicine, education, agriculture, technology, sports, the arts, entrepreneurship, scientific research, and community projects.
What Does the Retirement Age Have to Do With It?
At first glance, this seems to be solely about recognizing the achievements of the older generation. However, the very idea of active aging is now becoming part of a broader discussion taking place in many European countries: what the future of the pension system will look like in the context of an aging population.
Logos Press has already reported that the retirement age in Europe continues to rise, although this is happening unevenly. While people in some countries retire at age 62, in others they will have to work until age 70. Under current rules, the highest retirement age is set in Denmark, where workers will not be able to retire until age 74.
Demographic changes are forcing governments to seek answers to complex questions: who will support the growing number of retirees, how to maintain the sustainability of pension funds, and what role older people can play in the economy. Currently, in Moldova, the retirement age for women is 62, and for men, 63. According to the current schedule, the retirement age for women will increase annually and will reach 63 by July 1, 2028, at which point the retirement age for men and women will be equal.
At the same time, government officials have repeatedly stated that they currently have no plans to further raise the retirement age after the completion of the already approved phase of the reform. The question of how to ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension system remains open.
Prime Minister Vasile Tofan recently acknowledged the existence of serious demographic risks. “I have no hope whatsoever regarding my pension—that I’ll be able to receive anything from the state. Because the population is aging. The generation born in the 1980s is very small, and it’s unclear who will pay for my pension,” he stated.
Incidentally, Tofan proposed directing privatization revenues into citizens’ funded pension accounts.
Adual purpose?
That is why programs supporting employment and social engagement after age 65 serve a dual purpose. On the one hand, they allow people who want to and are able to work to remain socially engaged and put their experience to use. On the other hand, they reflect the desire of governments to adapt to the new age structure of society.
Applications for the competition will be accepted until September 1, 2026. Candidates must submit documents confirming their achievements after turning 65: publications, diplomas, awards, participation in projects, testimonials from organizations, and other materials.
The winners of the competition will be selected by September 23, 2026, and will receive certificates conferring the title of laureate of the Award for Older Adults, as well as cash prizes.
