Moldovan diaspora in the European Union: how it helps the european integration of the Republic of Moldova

In the recent decades the Moldovan diaspora residing in European union countries has been playing an increasingly active role in supporting the course of European integration, promoted by the Moldovan authorities. Moldovan migrants are embracing democratic values and the EU's demonstration effect contributes to the growing support for the Republic of Moldova's integration into the European Union. The primary indicator of belonging to the diaspora is the migrants' desire to maintain their ties to their home country. Using sociological research as a base, the article analyzes the participation of Moldovan migrants in the political and socio-economic processes from the Republic of Moldova. The diaspora is actively involved in the Moldovan political life, however its economic participation in the development of their country of origin is mainly limited to monetary transfers. At the same time there is a category of migrants that are willing to invest in the Moldovan economy. The Moldovan authorities must create a beneficial investment climate in the country, provide for an effective use of the Moldovan diaspora's resources for the sustainable development of Moldova, its progress along the way of European integration.