The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Moldova, EU Delegation and UNFPA, organized the closing event of the 2024 Population and Housing Census (PHC). The event marked the successful completion of the most extensive national statistical exercise and emphasized the fundamental role of the collected data in shaping evidence-based public policies and supporting the country’s European integration path.

The event brought together high-level representatives of the Government, the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), other UN agencies, central and local public authorities, international experts, as well as representatives of civil society and the academic community. Held in a festive atmosphere, the event also celebrated World Statistics Day and National Statistician’s Day, highlighting the importance of high-quality data for a modern and transparent society.

The General Director of the National Bureau of Statistics, Oleg Cara, highlighted the tremendous effort and exemplary collaboration that led to this success. ,,We are proud to have carried out such large-scale exercise, which has shown that when there is determination, great things can be achieved for the benefit of society. This census was made possible thanks to the broad participation of national and international partners who provided consistent and complementary support. For the first time, we implemented 100% digitalized processes, using geoinformation technologies and combined data collection methods, making Moldova’s experience both rich and advanced at the regional level. The census is the cornerstone of official statistics and the foundation for aligning with European standards,” said Oleg Cara.

Conducted between 8 April and 7 July 2024, the Census gathered data on more than 2.4 million people and 1.6 million dwellings, following the highest UN and EU standards.

Present at the event, Rodica Crudu, Deputy Secretary General of the Government, reiterated the executive’s full support for this strategic process. ,,The census is a strategic investment in the future of the Republic of Moldova, providing us with essential data for efficient and equitable governance. Without this information, public planning could not respond to ever-evolving demographic realities. These data will enable us to enhance our capacity to produce statistics comparable at the European level, strengthening one of the fundamental pillars of the accession process, included in the core cluster,” stated Rodica Crudu.

Conducted between April 8 and July 7, 2024, the census collected data on more than 2.4 million people and 1.6 million dwellings, in accordance with UN and EU international standards. The activity was supported by the project ,,Support to the National Bureau of Statistics for the 2024 Population and Housing Census," funded by the European Union and implemented by UNFPA.

The event also marks the official completion of this project, a symbolic moment that closes an important chapter in the development of the national statistical system and the strengthening of data-based governance, in line with European and international standards.

Over the course of two and a half years, the project has mobilized resources, expertise, and solid partnerships, contributing significantly to the preparation of the 2024 Census.

In particular:

• Over 5000 enumerators and supervisors from 45 localities were trained to conduct digital interviews and ensure data confidentiality.
• 3,000 tablets were delivered and used for real-time data collection through CAPI (Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing).
• A secure virtual IT infrastructure was deployed to support all census operations.
• Modern software tools were developed and tested, including systems for online self-enumeration (CAWI) and administrative data integration.
• A Pilot Census was conducted in 10 diverse localities to test instruments, procedures, and digital tools.
• A nationwide communication campaign was implemented across digital media, outdoor advertising, and journalist training to strengthen transparency and public trust.

All activities were carried out in accordance with EU standards, UNECE recommendations, and international practices, demonstrating Moldova's capacity to move toward data-driven governance and UNFPA's commitment to modern and inclusive statistical systems.

Dr.Stephen STORK, First Counsellor, Head of Finance, Contracts and Audit Section, Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova: ,,The Census is one of the most valuable democratic exercises a country can undertake. By successfully implementing it according to international standards, Moldova strengthens its commitment to transparency, inclusion, and evidence-based policymaking—key elements on its path toward European integration.”

Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in Moldova, emphasized: “Behind every data point lies a person, a family, a community. This Census shows how data can bring visibility to everyone, especially those who are often unseen—and help design policies that advance equality, inclusion, and dignity for all. As Moldova advances on its path toward EU accession, the 2024 Census stands as a foundational pillar—demonstrating the country’s readiness to align with European values of accountability, inclusion, and data-driven governance.”

The 2024 Census was Moldova’s first fully digital Census, with enumerators using tablets and digital maps to ensure efficiency, confidentiality, and timely data processing. Results published throughout 2025 provide detailed insights into the country’s demographic, educational, migration, ethno-cultural, and housing profiles, enabling informed decisions for national development and EU integration.

Since 26 June 2023, UNFPA in Moldova, in close partnership with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), has been implementing the EU and UNFPA-funded initiative titled: ,,Support to the National Bureau of Statistics to Conduct the 2024 Population and Housing Census.” This project represents a cornerstone investment in Moldova’s statistical modernization, with a total budget of 2.075 million EURO, jointly supported by the European Union Delegation and UNFPA Moldova. The project’s overarching achievement lies in strengthening NBS’s institutional readiness for the 2024 Census, with a focus on digital transformation, methodological excellence, and inclusive engagement across the population.