Empowering Women in Agriculture: A Project for Moldova

September 30 - October 6, 2015

About Moldova

Moldova is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. The country is comprised of rich and fertile farmland that is used to support their economy. About 75% of their land is used for agriculture and is the main source of revenue for most people. In 2014, Moldova saw an increase in agricultural production which promoted their economic growth. In that same year, they signed a Free Trade Agreement with the EU, which allowed Moldova to connect with the world's largest market. Women in Moldova make up about half of the labor work force, but get paid 30% less than men do. The role of rural women in the workforce is crucial for Moldova, but often goes unnoticed. The empowerment of women has become one of the government's main priorities; in the last few years they have hosted events and meetings with local authorities and agencies to discuss the matter and plan to make changes.

About the Program

The IVLP is a professional exchange program that seeks to build mutual understanding between the U.S. and other nations through carefully designed short-term visits to the U.S. for current and emerging foreign leaders. Over the last 70 years, the IVLP has developed into the premier professional exchange program in the U.S. and brings over 200 emerging leaders to Jacksonville every year.

[1] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-17601580

[2] https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/md.html