Moldovan civil society and its impact on the promotion of European values through cultural education

Abstract

The European integration process of the Republic of Moldova requires not only structural reforms, but also a transformation of civic culture and public mentality. This paper examines the role of civil society in promoting European values through cultural education and diplomacy, with a focus on Moldova’s specific context. Using a qualitative methodology, the study combines two main research tools: a structured questionnaire applied to teaching staff in Moldova and a semi-structured interview. The questionnaire highlights how educators perceive the role of civil society and the educational system in shaping democratic values aligned with European standards. The data reflects a professional and experienced teaching body that combines pedagogical tradition with openness to innovation. The interview explores the concrete activities and challenges of NGOs in promoting cultural education as a vector of European values. Through these methods, the study identifies key themes such as civic engagement, cultural diplomacy, and the need for educational adaptation in the face of Moldova’s European aspirations. Findings indicate that civil society in Moldova plays a crucial role in bridging national identity and European integration, especially through cultural and educational
projects that foster tolerance, human rights, and democratic participation. This paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how civil society and education intersect to support Moldova’s democratic transformation in a sustainable and culturally sensitive manner.