The Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, Anca Dragu, delivered a speech at the international event "Ring the Bell for Gender Equality," alongside leaders from the financial sector, business representatives and international organizations.
The event organized in Chisinau under the theme "Ring the Bell for all girls and women: Rights. Equality. Empowerment" highlighted the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in the economic sector.
In her speech, Governor Anca Dragu emphasized the need for sustainable policies that reduce gender gaps and provide equal access to economic and professional opportunities. "Gender equality is a necessity because everyone's voice must be heard at the decision-making table, and we need to be there because we have the skills. My belief is that this ‘drive’ starts at home. Never tell girls they can't pursue certain careers! Any girl can accomplish whatever she aspires to in life," stated the NBM Governor.
Ms. Anca Dragu said that the National Bank of Moldova fosters an inclusive and equitable work environment: 64% of the institution's employees are women, and 53% of management positions are held by women. "We promote the advancement of women, but we remain consistent in upholding professional values. Competence and integrity are the criteria that define performance," emphasized the head of the central bank.
NBM data reflects the active involvement of women in the financial sector; however certain disparities persist. According to statistics, women hold more bank cards than men (1.9 million vs. 1.6 million) and conduct more cashless payments (139,545,630 vs. 134,070,937). Yet, the total value of transactions made by women is lower than that of men (MDL 82,947,988,045 vs. MDL 85,846,407,403). "This may indicate that, in some cases, financial decisions are made by men. It also highlights the pay gap in the Republic of Moldova, where women earn, on average, 16% less than men – a disparity that is also reflected in pensions," Anca Dragu explained.
An important aspect of financial inclusion is preventing economic violence. "Financial independence is an essential prerequisite for combating economic violence, which unfortunately is still present. Every person must have equal access to financial resources and economic opportunities," emphasized the NBM Governor.
"Ring the Bell for Gender Equality" is a global initiative aimed at promoting gender equality in the financial and economic sector. Organized by five international entities: UN Women, the World Federation of Exchanges (WFE), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative (SSE), and the UN Global Compact (UNGC), it is now in its second edition in the Republic of Moldova, reinforcing the financial market's commitment to an inclusive and sustainable environment.
