Precarious working conditions and migration intentions in the Republic of Moldova: a theoretical and methodological analysis

International migration is one of the major social phenomena that has shaped the Republic of Moldova over the past three decades, exerting a significant impact on the labor market, demographic structure, and social development. This article analyzes, from a theoretical and methodological perspective, the relationship between working conditions and migration intentions in the Republic of Moldova. Based on a review of the literature and secondary analyses of existing studies (without original empirical data), the paper argues that objective factors of job quality (wages, type of contract, social protection) must be considered alongside subjective factors (perceived satisfaction, perceived stability) in order to explain migration intentions. The findings highlight the central role of remuneration and occupational instability, as well as differences by gender, age, and place of residence (rural/urban), alongside recurring methodological limitations: the difficulty of measuring intentions, the prevalence of informal employment, and the absence of longitudinal studies. The conclusion emphasizes the need for mixed-method approaches and stronger data infrastructures to better inform public policies aimed at reducing migration pressures.