Exploring Risk Factors of Early School Leaving in the Republic of Moldova

This study explores the determinants of early school leaving in the Republic of Moldova, with a focus on individual-level and contextual risk factors that shape young people's educational trajectories. Based on data from the 2020 Generations and Gender Survey and using binary logistic regression, the analysis identifies key predictors associated with increased likelihood of educational discontinuation among youth. The results highlight the significant impact of parental education, with youth whose parents have completed only lower secondary education being more likely to leave school early. Rural residence also emerges as a strong predictor, reflecting disparities in access to educational and transport infrastructure, as well as broader socio-economic disadvantages in non-urban areas. Gender differences are evident, with boys more likely to disengage from education, pointing to the influence of gendered socialization patterns. Additionally, early parenthood (before the age of 19) and growing up in larger families (three or more children) are significantly associated with higher odds of early school leaving. These findings emphasize the need for targeted, inclusive, and context-sensitive educational policies that address both structural inequalities and individual-level vulnerabilities. JEL Classification: I21, I24, J13