Overview

The key challenge for achieving economic growth is the fact that Moldova remains one of the poorest countries in the region. In 2001, per capita gross domestic product (GDP) was estimated at $400 and poverty rates at 55%-70% of the total population. Over 70% of the poor live in rural areas, and only 8% live in large cities. Some 800,000 Moldovans have left the country, most of them coming from the countryside. Moldova’s financial fragility makes it strongly dependent on external financing and/or debt rescheduling. In the mid-1990s, Moldova made considerable progress in democratization and economic development, particularly in reforming the agricultural sector. While this transformation has generally continued on track and most of the population maintains support for the reform process, it has imposed many hardships on the Moldovan people. This led to popular dissatisfaction with the previous government, and to the victory of the Communist Party in the February 2001 elections.

Moldova in Action

USAID Recognizes Lakeland, Florida Doctor for International Volunteer Efforts

Dr. Gregory J. Spirakis received the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Outstanding Citizenship Achievement Award in a ceremony this evening in Lakeland, Florida. The award was presented to Dr. Spirakis by Dr. Kent R. Hill, USAID Assistant Administrator for Europe and Eurasia. Read More ...