Diaspora reacts to Moldova economic narrative
The way members of PAS address voters outside election periods is drawing criticism not only within Moldova, but also among citizens who have emigrated in search of better opportunities.
Social media groups of Moldovan expatriates have been flooded with reactions to recent remarks by Alexandru Munteanu, who described the country’s development as “positive” and spoke of an ongoing process of convergence.
One Moldovan abroad, Victor Marakhovsky, published an emotional open letter that quickly spread across diaspora platforms. Responding directly to Munteanu’s comments, he urged readers to reflect on what he described as a detached and overly technocratic tone.
Criticism of economic data and living standards
Marakhovsky argued that the government’s assessment does not reflect the reality experienced by ordinary citizens. He pointed to official statistics showing that Moldova has lost around 13% of its population in recent years, while the remaining population is ageing, with the average age now reaching 40.
He also highlighted economic pressures, noting that absolute poverty exceeded 33% in 2024 – meaning roughly one in three citizens is living at subsistence level. In rural areas, the situation is even more severe, with poverty affecting around 43% of residents.
“This is the ‘dynamic’ you speak of – from 24.5% poverty in 2021 to 33.6% in 2024. Is this your ‘convergence’? Convergence towards zero income?” Marakhovsky wrote.
He added that rising prices are further straining households, citing increases of over 30% for eggs and more than 20% for fruit. Essential services have also become more expensive, with water and sanitation costs rising by nearly 20% and electricity by 16.4%.
Public frustration reflected in online responses
Marakhovsky described Munteanu’s remark that Moldovans had “seen worse countries” as dismissive and offensive. He stressed that citizens want not comparisons with poorer economies, but the ability to live with dignity at home.
His message resonated widely online, with many users echoing similar frustrations.
“Munteanu is another specialist from the World Bank, just like Natalia Gavrilița,” wrote Valeriu Secriеру.
“This is zero!” added Vyacheslav Nikolaev.
In his conclusion, Marakhovsky argued that the role of government is not to produce favourable reports for “external partners”, but to create conditions in which citizens no longer feel compelled to leave and can afford basic necessities without choosing between food and medicine.
