The Republic of Moldova is the poorest country in Europe. In 2002 almost half of its population of 4.4. million people lived under the poverty level and most of them are considered as extremely poor. Demographic development is negative, also due to the high emigration rate of young Moldavans. Switzerland has been active in Moldova since 2000, providing assistance especially in the way of humanitarian aid. In 2004 the SDC strengthened its support of the transition process – mainly in economic and social sectors – within the scope of bilateral technical cooperation.