Migration and Development in the Republic of Moldova

The republic of Moldova has experienced a great emigration wave during the last decade that has been important for the national economy. The aim of this research is to explore and describe the social networks at work in these migration processes and to uncover their possible role in Moldovan social and economic development. The study reveals two forums where social networks exist. Firstly, kin relations are the most important set of ties in migrants' networks; family members and neighbours provide information and connections that make migration safer. Secondly, Moldovans, Romanians and Ukrainians meet in migration destinations to exchange services. The most common favours are assistance in finding work or accommodation. The Home Town Associations (HTAs) formed in the US by hispanic immigrants don't exist in the Moldovan migrant communities. Results from the study indicate that networks based on the home town or village are very sparse and not serve as platforms for migrants. The current social networks reduce the risks connected to migration, but have only indirect implications for development in Moldova.