Socio-Economic Analysis of the Southern Region of the Republic of Moldova based on Official Statistics and Population Perceptions

The Southern Region¹ of the Republic of Moldova is currently experiencing a pronounced geodemographic dynamic, characterised by the deterioration of natural population movement indicators and the intensification of migratory processes, both at the national level and, in particular, at the international level, phenomena that have led to a significant demographic decline. In this context, an integrated analysis of geodemographic processes and phenomena becomes essential for understanding the region's socio-economic evolution and for substantiating both current and prospective public policies. The research methodology combines the quantitative analysis of official statistical data, including the preliminary results of the 2024 Population and Housing Census, with qualitative approaches based on data from two sociological surveys conducted in the region. The integration of these two types of data enables a more nuanced interpretation of geodemographic realities and contributes to the identification of the determining factors of the region's demographic sustainability.