Gender Equality Index 2026. Between legislative reforms and social realities.gender equality index 2026. Between legislative reforms and social realities.

This report presents the 2026 Gender Equality Index for Moldova, assessing progress across six strategic domains. The overall score reached 61 points, reflecting a modest improvement compared to the previous year. While legislative reforms have contributed to increased female participation in the labour market, the report identifies setbacks in health outcomes and political representation. It highlights a growing disconnect between formal policy progress and persistent societal norms, particularly regarding gender stereotypes. The findings underscore that structural reforms alone are insufficient without sustained efforts to address social attitudes and ensure balanced representation in decision-making processes.

Natalia Covrig, Alexandra Ermolenco, Cristina Cojocaru, Alina Andronache, Gheorghina Drumea. Partnership for Development Centre, Chisinau, March 2026