Chișinău Hosts Closing Event of Unique Educational Project for Gagauz Youth
On Monday, Chișinău hosted the closing conference “Gagauzia – Chișinău: Results of the ‘Gagauzia People’s Assembly Simulator’ Project”, bringing together participants, experts, and project partners. The event marked the conclusion of a four-month educational program aimed at developing civic competencies and legislative skills among young people from the autonomous region.
Implemented by the Center for Civic Initiatives for National Minorities between April and August 2025, the project became the first platform of its kind where Gagauz youth had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the real legislative process of the Gagauzia People’s Assembly (GPA) and understand how the autonomy interacts with central authorities.
From Theory to Practice
Over the course of four months, participants visited state institutions at all levels, met with parliamentarians and representatives of diplomatic missions, and took part in training sessions and mentorship programs. Special attention was given to developing public speaking skills, analytical thinking, and interethnic dialogue.
One of the project’s key stages was a sociological survey conducted by the participants themselves in Gagauzia. The study revealed the expectations and attitudes of local residents on key issues – from social policy to the prospects of cooperation with Chișinău.
Youth-Driven Initiatives
The final stage of the project was the presentation of legislative proposals developed by the participants. The proposals included reforms in the field of education, youth support programs, and measures to strengthen dialogue between central and regional authorities.
“We want young people in Gagauzia not only to know about the work of the GPA but also to feel that they can influence the future of their region,” emphasized Mihai Peicov, Executive Director of the Center for Civic Initiatives for National Minorities.
The “Gagauzia People’s Assembly Simulator” project was implemented with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Moldova, the European Endowment for Democracy, and the Konrad Adenauer Foundation in Moldova.
We are confident that such initiatives can not only increase the level of youth engagement in political life but also help form a new generation of leaders ready to work for the benefit of the entire society.
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