Moldova's administrative structure consists of 37 second-level districts (raions) that serve as the primary tier of local government below the national level. These districts handle essential public services including education, healthcare, social welfare, local infrastructure maintenance, and land use planning. District administrations are responsible for implementing national policies at the local level while managing their own budgets and coordinating with municipal authorities within their territories. Each district is governed by an elected council and an appointed president who oversees day-to-day operations. This administrative framework was established following Moldova's independence to decentralize governance and bring public services closer to citizens, though the system has undergone several reforms to improve efficiency and reduce bureaucratic overlap.