Positive Changes in Countries, Part 41 of a Multi-part Series – Considerate Governments, Considerate Citizens: Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco

Federated States of Micronesia: The country’s official name is the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). It comprises over 600 islands spread across the western Pacific Ocean north of the equator. Micronesia’s government is safeguarding communities vulnerable to the effects of climate change through various initiatives. On another topic, the FSM recognizes the importance of advancing women’s rights and gender equality. His Excellency David Panuelo, President of the Federated States of Micronesia, has sagely commented, “Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, reaching gender equality in our nation will improve our whole society.”

Republic of Moldova: My country is in Eastern Europe, between Romania and Ukraine. Since the early 2000s, Moldova has realized significant economic development and poverty reduction. Moldova strives to achieve more sustainable growth and a higher quality of life for its people. In 2014, it declared its aspiration to reach economic standards acceptable to the European Union. Then, in March 2022, a week after the Russian military began its assault on Ukraine, Moldova officially applied for EU membership. On the first day of the war, as refugees began arriving at the border, residents prepared warm food and drink for them. Within hours, the president of Moldova, Her Excellency Maia Sandu, directed all border crossings to expedite the entry process. By the end of the following month, tiny Moldova had selflessly processed about 400,000 displaced people. The Ukrainians were deeply touched by the loving support they received in their hour of need.

Principality of Monaco: Monaco is the second-smallest sovereign state in the world. The Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, created by the monarch in 2006, is dedicated to nurturing the planet’s climate, water resources, and biodiversity. In 2016, the Principality established the National Pact for Energy Transition to encourage all individuals and entities in Monaco to participate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The Principality has introduced programs to promote sustainable practices within the tourism industry. For instance, hotels and restaurants that use organic fruits and vegetables, minimize food waste, or reduce their use of disposable plastic can earn official certifications. And to satisfy their customers’ changing preferences, most Monaco food establishments now offer vegan and vegetarian options.