Following administrative reforms, Moldova's 40 districts, or raions, have been reorganized into nine counties, one municipality (Chis¸inau), and two territorial units (Transdniestria and Gagauzia).
The Russian minority on the east bank of the Dniester River have proclaimed their independence as the "Transdniestria Republic," but it has not been recognized by the Moldovan government, which is, however, willing to allow this region a degree of autonomy. The predominantly Turkish Gagauz region has also been granted autonomy.