Wage inequality bill in 2025. How do women lose several average salaries annually?

This report examines recent trends in gender wage inequality in Moldova, identifying a widening gap in 2025. It finds that women earn on average 16.6% less than men, with significant cumulative financial losses over time. The analysis links this increase to labour market dynamics, including the concentration of women in lower-paid or part-time roles and ongoing occupational segregation. The report also highlights the long-term impact of wage disparities on pension gaps and economic security. It provides policy-oriented recommendations, including strengthening pay transparency measures and aligning national legislation with EU Directive 2023/970.

Natalia Covrig, Alexandra Ermolenco, Alina Andronache. Partnership for Development Centre, Chisinau, March 2026