When every second counts, communication saves lives. In Moldova, a new project is modernizing how emergency services connect with people in need, making help faster, smarter, and accessible to all.
The “Next-Generation Emergency Communication: Inclusive and Smart 112” initiative, implemented by Medical Information Technologies in partnership with the National Single Service for Emergency Number 112, is introducing cutting-edge tools that are transforming how emergency systems operate. The project is supported through the Czech-UNDP Partnership for Sustainable Development Goals and financed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic via the Czech Challenge Fund.
Building an Inclusive Emergency System
Moldova’s current 112 infrastructure has long faced challenges- from limited caller localization and reliance on voice communication to difficulties serving people with disabilities, non-native speakers, and international travelers. The NG-SOS solution directly addresses these issues by introducing real-time location tracking, live video and chat communication, and automated translation features, ensuring that no one is left unheard during an emergency.
The new NG-SOS dispatcher portal, tailored to Moldova’s system, is now operational in a pilot testing mode. It enables operators to receive live video, photos, and text from the scene, pinpoint exact caller locations, and share data instantly with rescue units. These tools not only improve situational awareness but also speed up response times and coordination between teams.
Technology that Connects People and Saves Lives
A central element of the project is the customized Moldovan NG-SOS mobile application, developed for both Android and iOS. The app is currently being finalized and will soon enter testing. Once launched, it will allow users to send their location, medical profile, and key details such as next-of-kin contacts directly to emergency responders. For people with hearing or vision impairments, the app will include dedicated accessibility features like real-time text chat and voice-over support.
The app will also include prevention and awareness modules, offering first-aid guidance developed with the European Resuscitation Council, maps of nearby aid stations and defibrillators, and educational information on handling emergencies- turning everyday technology into a tool for safety and preparedness.
Beyond national borders, Moldova’s system is already connected with existing NG-SOS applications used in countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany. This interoperability ensures that travelers using these apps can reach Moldova’s 112 services seamlessly, fostering a truly cross-border emergency communication network.
Setting a New Standard for Public Safety
The NG-SOS project demonstrates how digital innovation and inclusion can go hand in hand. By enhancing accessibility, enabling real-time data exchange, and integrating international best practices, Moldova’s 112 system is becoming more responsive, connected, and people-centered.
As the pilot continues, Moldova is taking a decisive step toward a next-generation emergency communication system—one that uses technology to save lives, empower people, and ensure that help is always within reach.
