Sistemul protecției sociale a persoanelor cu dizabilități în Republica Moldova: evaluare și recomandări

Abstract

The social protection system for people with disabilities in the Republic of Moldova plays an essential role in ensuring a dignified life and facilitating the social integration of this vulnerable category. Although reforms have been implemented and continuous efforts are being made, economic and social challenges remain a reality, profoundly affecting the living standards of people with disabilities. At the beginning of 2023, 162.3 thousand people with disabilities were registered in the country, of which 10.9 thousand were children. This study aims to analyze the statistical data and available information to assess the impact of social protection on this population category, highlighting the significant discrepancies between disability pension levels and the established minimum subsistence level. The results show that the majority of people with disabilities live in rural areas, where access to basic services such as healthcare and education is limited, and living conditions are often precarious. Furthermore, recommendations are proposed to improve social protection, including adjusting pensions to meet the minimum subsistence level, facilitating access to services in rural areas, providing support to families caring for individuals with severe disabilities, and developing vocational training programs adapted for people with disabilities.