The public consultations on the implementation of the World Bank-funded project “Strengthening Moldova’s Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience” were held on March 21, 2024.
The primary project stakeholders include four Moldovan ministries: Ministry of Internal Affairs (including General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations), Ministry of Environment (including State Hydrometeorological Service), Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, Ministry of Finance, and the public institution Office for External Assistance Programs Management, which is responsible for project management.
During the public consultations, the project design was presented, outlining its objectives and activities to be implemented over the next five years.
According to the project design, tools and technologies will be implemented to enhance inter-institutional capacities for preparedness and response to emergencies. Between 2024 and 2029, the project will invest in creating a public warning system, procuring intervention vehicles and equipment for the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and strengthening the capacities of entities responsible for emergency preparedness and response at local level.
The project also plans to improve hydrometeorological services by upgrading meteorological observation systems, and developing capacity for forecasting and delivering information to the population.
Another crucial project component is supporting policy development and regulatory framework related to reducing seismic risk for critical infrastructure and improving financial resilience. Furthermore, the project will design and implement financial protection mechanisms to mitigate the impact of disasters.
During the public consultations, the parties emphasized that the project implementation process will be in line with the social and environmental standards, including occupational safety, environmental protection and public health regulations, as provided for in the social and environmental plans of the institutions involved.
The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the project to the general public and facilitate discussions and exchanges among the project beneficiaries, civil society representatives, and stakeholders.
Initiated by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the public consultations were attended by the Secretary of State of the Ministry, Mrs. Jana Costachi, the Head of the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, Colonel Oprea Alexandru, along with representatives from other ministries, institutions and agencies involved in project implementation. These include State Hydrometeorological Service, Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, Ministry of Environment, Regina Pacis Foundation, National Association for Rural Development, Office for External Assistance Programs Management, as well as project beneficiaries.
According to Ms. Costachi, “Strengthening Moldova’s Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience” project, which was designed by four ministries, represents a long-term strategic commitment. Its aim is to enhance institutional capacities for disaster risk management and climate resilience in the Republic of Moldova. The Secretary of State stressed that a large part of the project will focus on investing in and strengthening institutions for preparedness and immediate response to emergencies, with particular emphasis on addressing climate change.
The €40 million inter-institutional project “Strengthening Moldova’s Disaster Risk Management and Climate Resilience” is funded by the World Bank.
