Moldova became independent in 1991 when the Soviet Union broke apart. Since then it has gone through a long and difficult economic transition, like other post-Soviet states but with its own particular problems.
The country has dealt with privatization, the loss of old trade links, and the breakaway region of Transnistria. Its relationship with both the European Union and Russia remains a live political question, and information operations targeting the country have made international news in recent years.
The original article’s claim about the size of the GDP collapse was removed because it could not be verified. Economic history needs sourced numbers, not dramatic estimates.
Students of post-communist transition should look for programs in economics, political science, or area studies with real coursework on Eastern Europe. Related reading: higher learning in Moldova, conflict resolution studies in Serbia, higher education paths in Serbia, and the benefits of study abroad opportunities.

