[REPORT] Quick Diagnosis of the Moldovan Public Sector’s Readiness for AI

02/10/2024

In response to the growing global importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in governance, a survey was conducted in August 2024 to evaluate the perceptions, usage, and challenges of AI among state institutions in the Republic of Moldova. The survey, organized by the Sub-Council for Artificial Intelligence and Data Governance under the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization, sought to capture a comprehensive picture of the current state of AI integration across public sector institutions. This assessment aims to serve as an empirical foundation for developing future strategies aimed at enhancing AI-driven public sector innovation and governance eciency.

The survey encompassed a total of 10 carefully formulated questions designed to probe three key areas: (i) the extent and nature of AI adoption within state institutions, (ii) the perceived opportunities that AI oers in enhancing public service delivery and policy formulation, and (iii) the barriers and challenges that institutions face in implementing AI-driven solutions. A mixed-methods approach was employed, utilizing a combination of open-ended, multiple-choice, and contingent questions. This methodological framework allowed for both quantitative analysis of adoption rates and qualitative exploration of individual institutional perspectives and experiences with AI.

The survey was distributed to 42 key public institutions, out of which 33 institutions responded, resulting in a response rate of 78.5%. Furthermore, 66 individual responses were recorded, providing a diverse sample reflective of various hierarchical levels within the public sector, ranging from senior policymakers to operational sta. This diversity of respondents is crucial in ensuring that the findings represent a broad spectrum of insights, encapsulating both strategic and operational viewpoints on AI integration.

Given the self-reporting nature of the survey, the data obtained reflects subjective assessments from the institutions themselves, which may introduce certain biases in terms of perceived readiness and challenges. Nonetheless, the information gleaned provides an important snapshot of the current status of AI within Moldova’s public sector. These findings will serve as a critical input into the national AI policy framework and will help guide targeted interventions aimed at fostering a more robust and cohesive approach to AI adoption across government institutions.

By examining the survey results in detail, this report aims to elucidate the underlying factors that influence AI implementation in Moldova’s public sector, while also highlighting areas where capacity-building eorts, policy adjustments, and technological investments may be necessary to fully leverage AI’s potential. As AI continues to reshape governance paradigms worldwide, it is imperative that Moldova positions itself to capitalize on this transformative technology, ensuring that it is integrated in a manner that is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with European and international standards.

Download the assessment here.