The National Trade Union Confederation of Moldova (CNSM) celebrated on December 11, 2025, a milestone for the trade union movement in the Republic of Moldova – 120 years since the establishment of the first trade union in Bessarabia, founded on December 19, 1905, by workers in the construction sector. This jubilee represents not only a festive occasion but also an opportunity to reflect on a rich history of fighting for workers’ rights, solidarity, and social justice.
Over more than a century, Moldovan trade unions have made significant contributions to strengthening social dialogue, improving labor legislation, and promoting a safe, fair, and dignified working environment. With a strong structure that includes 24 national-branch centers, over 5,200 primary trade union organizations, and approximately 270,000 members, the trade union movement continues to be a key actor in defending workers’ interests.
In his message on this occasion, CNSM President Igor Zubcu emphasized that the history of trade unions in Moldova is “a history of solidarity, unity, and tireless work carried out by numerous generations of trade union leaders and activists, who have always stood guard over the rights and interests of workers.”
He highlighted the valuable contributions of trade unions in social, economic, and legislative fields, as well as their role in promoting gender equality, supporting youth, and strengthening international labor standards.
According to CNSM leadership, the Moldovan trade union movement enjoys recognition and respect at the international level, being regarded as a modern, democratic, and credible organization. Despite contemporary challenges, trade unions are recognized for their capacity to promote fundamental social values and contribute to the development of a more just and inclusive future for all workers.
CNSM draws attention to the need to intensify solidarity and unity in the context of current social and economic pressures, emphasizing that only through cohesion and collective action can the genuine protection of workers’ rights and the strengthening of trade union freedom be ensured.
On this occasion, the Confederation’s leadership expressed deep gratitude to all those active within the trade union system, as well as to the veterans of the movement, for their dedication, professionalism, and tireless work in service of workers.
The National Trade Union Confederation of Moldova (CNSM) also expressed sincere thanks and appreciation by awarding certificates of recognition to members of the Public Association of Veterans of the Trade Union Movement of the Republic of Moldova, the CNSM Youth Commission, the CNSM Women’s Commission, the CNSM Educational Council, the presidents of Primary Trade Union Organizations, CNSM representatives in the regions, institutions subordinated to CNSM, the CNSM-USM sports team led by coach Iurie Mogoreanu, and the vice-presidents of CSNR.
CNSM wishes all trade unionists a Happy Anniversary and continued success in the noble mission of defending the rights and dignity of workers in the Republic of Moldova.
To see more photos from the event, please visit the CNSM Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/sindicate.md
