Over 30 judges and prosecutors from across the Republic of Moldova participated in a seminar aimed at strengthening their knowledge and practical skills in resolving labour disputes in light of recent legislative amendments. The discussions focused on the application of the new regulations in court practice and their impact on the rights of employees and employers.

The seminar was organised by the Council of Europe project “Advancing Employment Rights in the Republic of Moldova” in cooperation with the National Institute of Justice, as part of the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2025–2028.

The seminar combined analysis of the labour legislation amendments that entered into force on 1 January 2026 with extensive examination of case law, practical scenarios and interactive discussions. Participants explored challenges arising in judicial practice and exchanged perspectives on the application of the new legal provisions affecting employment relations, occupational safety and health, temporary agency work, and protection against violence and harassment in the world of work.

Drawing on the European Social Charter and the case law of the European Committee of Social Rights, Council of Europe international consultant Ms Monika Smusz-Kulesza presented practical guidance on ensuring effective remedies in labour disputes, highlighting how Charter standards can support consistent interpretation of national legislation and strengthen rights protection in practice. The combination of international expertise and the practical experience of Moldovan judges created a dynamic learning environment, allowing participants to address concrete challenges encountered in their daily work.

By strengthening participants’ ability to apply recent legislative amendments through the lens of Council of Europe standards, the seminar contributed to more coherent judicial practice and better protection of labour and employment rights within national courts.

This event is organised within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2025-2028, and the project "Advancing Employment Rights in the Republic of Moldova".