The Moldova Project name row embarrasses Tofan’s new initiative
Prime Minister Vasile Tofan, who initiated the creation of a strange new body that largely duplicates the functions of both existing structures and the government itself, apparently did not even bother to check whether its name was unique.
The scandal broke only after Victoria Morozov, who has headed an NGO with an almost identical name for 18 years, expressed her surprise.
“I want to believe this is a mistake. We respect the government’s initiative and the purpose of the new institution, but two separate structures one non-governmental, the other state-run, operating in the same country under almost identical names will inevitably create confusion in the public space,” she said.
The organisation called The Moldova Project has existed for 18 years. It works to protect vulnerable children and, judging by its website and social media, remains active and continues to do good.
The government has already responded to Morozov’s comments. Its spokesman, Dumitru Ciorici, said the project is still at the consultation stage and that the government is following the discussions.
Most likely, the name will be reviewed. One possible option would be Proiectul Moldova. It is understandable that a prime minister who has returned from prolonged emigration might feel closer to an obvious Anglicism, but it would not hurt to remember the norms of the state language. Or, to be completely honest, the name could be simpler still: SRL Moldova.
