Local reform, with a 3,000-resident threshold for mayoralties, enters a new round of consultations

Citizens and local authorities can discuss the proposal to reorganize the Republic of Moldova’s administrative-territorial structure from 28 October to 5 November 2026, including a minimum threshold of 3,000 residents for a mayoralty. The Government announced the new round of public consultations on 27 October 2026.

In brief

• The State Chancellery is holding public consultations from 28 October to 5 November 2026, together with the Government’s representatives in the regions.

• The Government’s proposal provides for reorganizing the 32 districts into 3 regions: North, Centre and South.

• Under the Government’s proposal, Taraclia District would become a level II municipality.

• Citizens can submit suggestions during public discussions, by commenting on the consultation platform or by email.

What changes are proposed for mayoralties?

The legislative package submitted for consultation proposes that a mayoralty have at least 3,000 residents. The threshold is part of the draft laws under discussion; the Government has not presented it as a rule that has already been adopted.

The draft laws also address how local public administration is organized and operates. According to the Government, the reform aims to strengthen mayoralties and develop villages and towns.

How would the administrative map change?

The Government’s proposal would replace the structure of 32 districts with 3 regions, named North, Centre and South. The legislative package would establish the powers and responsibilities of the future regions.

Under the same proposal, Taraclia District would become a level II municipality. The municipalities of Chișinău and Bălți would retain their current status, while the Autonomous Territorial Unit of Gagauzia would keep its special status.

Who can take part and how can suggestions be submitted?

The consultations, taking place from 28 October to 5 November 2026, are organized by the State Chancellery together with the Government’s representatives in the regions. Mayors, local elected officials, civil society representatives, citizens and other interested parties are invited to take part.

The legislative package is available for review on the public participation platform. Suggestions can be presented at public discussions, posted as comments on the platform or sent to primariiputernice@gov.md.

The Government has also invited representative associations of local elected officials, parliamentary factions, the academic community and extra-parliamentary parties. Participants are invited to discuss the proposals and contribute suggestions on the draft laws.