Underlying this particular research effort is the goal of assisting the authorities in
Moldova to formulate a series of policies that will strengthen the ties between migrants
and their homeland. The data collection for this research, consisting of a review of the
relevant literature, formal interviews, informal meetings and limited on-line
correspondence, commenced with my visit to Moldova in September, 2006 and included
visits to Italy (December, 2006) and Moscow (February, 2007). In addition, a concurrent
series of interviews was conducted over a 4 month period here in Israel. In each of the
settings, interviews and informal meetings were conducted with migrants (rank and file
as well as communal leaders) and other key stakeholders (from government and civil
society).
This report is loosely structured along the lines of a SWOT analysis, entailing an
examination of the phenomenon under study consisting of its perceived Strengths and
Weaknesses along with the Opportunities and Threats that are brought to bear on it.
While the (SWOT) structure of this document is not necessarily the ideal conceptual
prism through which to analyze this phenomenon, it will ideally stimulate discussion,
which in turn will sensitize policy makers to the needs and sensibilities of migrants and
assist them in crafting a more effective and migrant/diaspora-friendly set of policies.
Initially, the terms used in this research - "diaspora" and "Moldovan Communities
Abroad" (MCA) - are clarified with special emphasis placed on the relevance of each for
the Moldovan context.