This event aimed at raising social justice awareness in the light of Sustainable Development Objectives for the next 15 years, adopted unanimously by the UN Member States in October 2015. During the national consultations post 2015 the Moldovan people mentioned decent jobs as their highest aspiration of living conditions development and improvement.

The attendees discussed informal economy, quality of employment policies, social inclusion, observance of the right to work and work conditions for persons with disabilities, migrants and refugees, etc.

“We mark this event for the 10th time in Moldova, which represents an anniversary for us. The most vulnerable should participate in decision-making process and economic growth has to be inclusive. Each and everyone, regardless of life circumstances and experiences, should be receive support to realize their full potential. However the concept of social justice is not yet fully understood. Next, we strive to achieve the 2030 Agenda and localize the Sustainable Development Goals”, said Gheorghe Brega, Deputy Prime Minister.

“On this day, we celebrate the progress made in the field of social justice. And at the same time, we renew our commitment to build a future of dignity for all”, stated Dafina Gercheva, UN Resident Coordinator for the Republic of Moldova / UNDP Resident Representative.

“Moldova has made significant progress in economic and social development over the past 20 years. Major inequalities in society persist, with a widening gap between urban and rural areas in terms of poverty, jobs and access to basic services. Overcoming complex development challenges requires integrated, holistic and targeted approaches and effective horizontal and vertical coordination. The UN family is firmly committed to further advance the social justice agenda”, said Dafina Gercheva.

The event culminated with the official signing of the Decent Work Country Programme for 2016 – 2020 between the International Labor Organization and the Government of the Republic of Moldova.

“I would like to encourage the Government to conduct consultations on the challenges on the labor market. I am honored to sign this new country programme for Moldova, embedded with our full support. Joint efforts of government and social actors are needed to make it a reality. Informal economy and undeclared work affects social security of Moldova and we should strive to fight them.”, noted Heinz Koller, Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia of International Labor Organization (ILO).

The programme priorities refer to:

1. Promoting employment and a favorable business environment for sustainable enterprises;
2. Efficient social dialogue;
3. Social protection and better working conditions.

The Chisinau meeting was held in partnership with the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection and Family.

The yearly observance of the World Day of Social Justice on 20 February supports the efforts of the international and national communities in poverty eradication, promotion of full employment and decent work, gender equality and access to social welfare and justice for all.

For the United Nations Organization, the aspirations for social justice represent the core of its global mission of promoting human development and dignity. The adoption of the International Labor Organization’s Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization is just a recent example of the UN commitment for the social justice system. The Declaration focuses on guaranteeing equitable results for all through employment, social protection, social dialogue and fundamental principles and the right to work.