Subjective well-being and citizens’ health: an instrument for assessing economic well-being in the Republic of Moldova [Articol]

Abstract

Purpose of the article: The article explores the integration of subjective well-being and the population’s health status into a composite instrument for assessing economic well-being in the Republic of Moldova. The study demonstrates the relevance of these dimensions for a deeper understanding of socio-economic realities and for designing more effective public policies. The paper is developed in the context of the realization ‘Strengthening socio-economic and legal mechanisms to ensure the wellbeing and security of the citizens (CONSEJ 01.05.02). Methodology: The study employs a mixed approach that combines conceptual analysis with descriptive–inferential statistics. The empirical base includes secondary data from the National Bureau of Statistics, the World Health Organization, Eurostat, and OECD/UN reports, alongside a comparative analysis of statistical data and evidence obtained from a survey of 609 respondents. National survey micro-data include life satisfaction scales and self-reported health assessments. The proposed instrument is structured around three fundamental pillars-subjective well-being, health, and the socio-economic context. Construction of the index applies min–max normalisation, weighting via the AHP method or equal weights, and robustness checks to assess sensitivity to weights and to identify multicollinearity. The analysis includes regional comparisons and an examination of differences across demographic and socio-economic categories (age, sex, income level, and place of residence). Conclusions: Integrating citizens’ subjective perceptions and objective health indicators into the assessment of economic well-being provides a more complete and realistic picture than relying solely on objective measures. The results reveal strong linkages among health status, life satisfaction, and overall socio-economic conditions, highlighting significant disparities between rural and urban areas as well as across income quintiles. The developed composite instrument can serve as a valuable tool for public authorities when prioritizing interventions (health prevention programs, improved access to services, employment and income policies) and for the systematic monitoring of progress. Originality: The research proposes an innovative methodological framework tailored to Moldova’s specific context and needs, bringing together subjective and health indicators into a single synthetic score that is readily usable by decision-makers. Its main scholarly contribution lies in the practical design of the index, the development of a detailed computation and validation protocol, and the creation of a methodological guide for integrating the instrument into existing institutional monitoring systems.