Alexei Buzu
According to the amendments to the Methodology of voluntary unification of administrative-territorial units, the exclusion of this criterion is motivated by the fact that the distance limit does not fully reflect the realities on the ground and is more of a formality that complicates the process of administrative-territorial consolidation.
At the same time, in the united ATUs public services will remain available to citizens at the local level, without the need to travel to the administrative center. This is planned to be realized through diversification of service delivery methods, including their digitalization and expansion of the network of Unified Service Delivery Centers (CUPS).
“The exclusion of the distance limitation is justified, among other things, by international experience. Other countries, including Estonia, have allowed interconnection at distances much greater than 25 km. Moreover, unlike these countries, Moldova has no geographical barriers such as mountains, islands or large rivers that could create difficulties,” the document says.
No less than 3 thousand inhabitants!
At the same time, it is proposed to exclude the possibility of deviating up to 10% from the minimum threshold of 3,000 inhabitants for united administrative-territorial units (ATU). This change is made in the context of the recent adjustment of the legislative framework, after the phrase “as a rule” was removed from the law from the provision establishing the minimum population of the first tier ATU. This change turned the 3,000 population threshold into a strict condition that does not allow for flexible interpretations.
“Stimulus package” of 6.4 billion lei
Secretary General of the Government Alexei Buzu announced a “stimulus” package of Le 6.4 billion for the merged units.
“Starting from 2027, we will direct massive investments to our localities to realize serious projects aimed at solving the actual problems of citizens,” Alexei Buzu said.
