Moldova Proposes Enhanced Romanian Language Programs for Diaspora and Foreign Children

Ministry of Education and Research Drives Language Integration

The Ministry of Education and Research (MEC) in Moldova has put forward new proposals aimed at strengthening Romanian language programs for children from the diaspora and foreign nationals. These measures are intended to facilitate their adaptation and integration into the Moldovan education system. The initiative underscores Moldova's commitment to linguistic and cultural preservation, particularly for its citizens living abroad and newcomers to the country.

Existing Frameworks and Support for Diaspora Children

Moldova has a history of initiatives designed to support its diaspora children in maintaining their connection to the Romanian language. As early as July 2017, the National Council for Curriculum within the Ministry of Education approved a Romanian language curriculum for diaspora children at A1 and A2 levels. This curriculum was developed for children aged 7 to 12 years from mixed or reintegrated diaspora families, aiming to help them acquire the Romanian language through culture and civilization in a non-formal educational setting.

Further efforts included the distribution of educational materials. In April 2018, 400 copies of the textbook set 'Learn Romanian Together. First steps' were sent to 14 educational centers across countries such as Italy, Portugal, Belgium, France, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Canada, Russia, and Georgia. These programs are often supported by the Diaspora Engagement Hub (DEH), implemented by the Bureau for Relations with the Diaspora (BRD) in partnership with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Moldova.

New Proposals and Legislative Amendments

In a significant move, Minister of Education and Research Dan Perciun announced in December 2025 that the MEC has proposed amendments to the Education Code. These changes specifically focus on providing linguistic integration and adaptation programs for children returning from the diaspora. Minister Perciun highlighted the increasing number of citizens returning to Moldova, whose children require support to facilitate their integration, especially given that many may not have advanced knowledge of the Romanian language. The proposed amendments would enable the state and the educational system to invest resources into making such linguistic integration programs a reality, with schools offering these additional lessons.

Beyond the Education Code amendments, the government's broader 'Diaspora Engagement Hub' program, set to run from 2026 to 2028, will continue to support educational, cultural, and civic projects, including Romanian language instruction. Additionally, the MEC launched the ReBRAIN Program with a budget of 10 million lei to foster cooperation with the academic diaspora.

Broader Integration Efforts for Foreign Nationals

The Moldovan government's commitment to language integration extends beyond the diaspora to include foreign nationals. The Ministry of Education and Research, in partnership with organizations like UNICEF, has been actively involved in supporting the integration of refugee children into the Moldovan education system. This includes the development and piloting of a Romanian language curriculum for preparatory classes in general education institutions, designed to meet the specific needs of refugee children.

Furthermore, a national program for teaching the Romanian language to non-native speakers, including adults, has been expanded. In 2025, the MEC plans to train approximately 6,500 people through free Romanian language courses, with a total budget of 30 million lei allocated for the 2023-2025 period. These courses, offered both in-person and online, aim to provide participants with a certificate of linguistic competence according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.