European officials, ministers, and social partners convened in Moldova to affirm their commitment to social rights to reduce inequality, reinforce democratic institutions and promote decent work. The High-Level Conference on Social Rights: The European Social Charter placed Europe's framework for labour and social protection at the centre of discussions on demographic pressures, technological change and evolving labour markets.
Organized by Moldova and the Council of Europe, the two-day conference concluded with the adoption of a final Declaration, signalling the Charter's relevance in shaping social and labour policy across Europe.
Building on the 2023 Reykjavík Declaration and 2024 Vilnius Declaration, the conference sought to advance wider ratification of the European Social Charter, revitalise political commitment and partnerships in support of social rights.
Discussions also addressed the future of work, from AI and platform work to non-standard employment and the green transition.
The future of work is not only about innovation. It is about ensuring that transformation advances social justice.
Peter van Rooij, ILO Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia
"The future of work is not only about innovation. It is about ensuring that transformation advances social justice. By anchoring AI, platform work and the green transition firmly within international labour standards, we can ensure that change strengthens - rather than undermines - dignity at work," said Peter van Rooij, ILO Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.
Moldova faces a profound demographic shift, with low fertility, an ageing population and sustained emigration placing pressure on the labour market, social protection and healthcare systems. The National Development Strategy "European Moldova 2030" sets out a vision for a resilient, inclusive economy aligned with European standards, centred on human capital, labour inclusion and social infrastructure.
Social rights are not a luxury, but are just as much the foundation of democratic security as fundamental political rights, such as the right to vote.
Maia Sandu, President of Moldova
"Freedom is not an abstract concept. It is something people must be able to live and breathe every day. And this is only possible when they are respected and supported. That is why social rights are not a luxury, but are just as much the foundation of democratic security as fundamental political rights, such as the right to vote. Our experience has shown that when people feel protected, they are less vulnerable to manipulation. When they have opportunities, they are more confident in their future", stressed Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova at the conference.
A high-level side event, convened by the ILO, UN Women and UNFPA, brought together government representatives, employers' and workers' organizations to explore "The Invisible Accelerators of Human Capital for Demographic Resilience."
Participants discussed ways to unlock human potential in Moldova, including expanding access to care services, promoting lifelong learning, and supporting women and people with disabilities in the workforce. They highlighted the role of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in enabling women to align reproductive aspirations with professional goals, emphasizing that accessible SRH services are crucial for workforce participation and demographic resilience.
Delegates noted how gaps in care services, gender norms, and unequal access to health and training affect workforce participation and life choices, underscoring that social rights, human capital, and inclusive policies are intertwined in shaping Moldova's response to demographic pressures and labour market changes.
"Addressing the demographic and labour market challenges requires unlocking the full potential of all people. This means removing barriers to employment and creating inclusive labour markets that allow women and men to participate fully throughout their life course," van Rooij added.
ILO constituents highlighted how employers' and workers' organizations support workers with family responsibilities and promote fair, inclusive workplaces, and reflected on efforts to advance ratification of ILO Convention No. 156 and related actions with the ILO.
