For ALL Women and Girls: Maria Galiț on 18 years of driving local leadership and change in Sărata Veche

#ForAllWomenandGirls is a rallying call for action on the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. Maria Galiț is a well-known name in the village of Sărata Veche, where she has made a significant impact over 18 years of service as mayor. Initially a physics and mathematics teacher with a degree from the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics at Moldova State University, Maria decided to pursue a career in local public administration. She started working at the mayor's office at age 25, and by 29, she was elected for her first term as mayor.

"I chose public administration because I wanted to contribute to my town’s development and improve the living conditions of the people in Sărata Veche," Maria recalls. "At that time, I felt I could make a real difference, which motivated me to keep going."

Challenges and support

Throughout her 18 years in office, Maria has faced many challenges but has always found innovative solutions to overcome them. "Sometimes, I had to make tough choices, especially regarding financial management. But I learned to collaborate with different institutions and use available resources efficiently," Maria explains. "The biggest challenge, however, was staying consistent in meeting the expectations of the residents, who always needed more services and better conditions."

Support came both from her family and her team. "My family, especially my husband, was always there for me, supporting me in difficult times and motivating me not to give up,” she says. “And the team at the mayor’s office were essential in implementing projects, with each member playing a key role in our success.”

Achievements and community impact

Over her five terms, Maria has implemented numerous projects that have had a lasting impact on Sărata Veche. Her achievements include improving infrastructure, advancing education and creating job opportunities for young people.

"We secured funding to renovate schools, build modern public spaces, and expand the water and sewage networks," Maria proudly shares. "Another important project was launching educational programmes encouraging young people to stay in the community and contribute to its development."

Maria emphasizes that education has always been a priority for her: "I want to know that I have helped shape a generation of young people who are prepared for the future, who can follow their passions, and who will bring a positive impact to their communities."

Actions for meaningful change

Maria believes building a sustainable and fair future requires collaboration from all community actors.

"Local authorities, teachers, and the entire community must actively engage in local development,” she says. “For example, young people can bring innovative perspectives, while men and boys, as allies of women, can help create a culture of equality and respect. Only by working together can we create a future where every person, regardless of gender, has equal opportunities for success."

What is your dream for all women and girls?

"For all women and girls, I wish for a world where we can follow our dreams, have access to quality education, and be respected in all aspects of life. It is also essential that every woman has the opportunity to contribute to community development without fear of being judged or marginalized because of her gender."

Maria Galiț, mayor of Sărata Veche, Fălești, and vice president of the Congress of Local Authorities of Moldova, is a beneficiary of UN Women. Over the years, she has participated in numerous trainings on gender equality, gender-responsive governance, local initiatives, and the integration of a gender perspective into the Community Development Strategy for 2020-2025. Sărata Veche is one of the 46 local public administrations in Moldova that have joined the European Charter for Equality between Women and Men in Local Life, with support from UN Women.