"The Republic of Moldova needs to continue its efforts to strengthen the independence, integrity and impartiality of the judiciary, while placing human rights at the forefront of ongoing reforms", said today Nils Muižnieks, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, at the end of his four-day visit in the country.
"The National Human Rights Action Plan is a positive step, but there is a need to ensure better communication about it, both internally and externally. It is also important to clearly define priorities - such as anti-discrimination and justice sector reform - and to involve civil society in the process of monitoring implementation".
The Commissioner calls for more efforts to ensure that the selection, appointment and promotion of judges are based on merit. "A credible and competent disciplinary mechanism is of key importance for promoting the integrity and impartiality of judges and increasing public trust in the judiciary".
Commissioner Muižnieks also recommends that the Parliament appoint judges to the Constitutional Court as soon as possible, in order to ensure that this institution is fully functional. (more…)
