On 27 November 2024, key achievements in implementing the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention were the focus of a conference organised by the Council of Europe and the Moldovan Agency for Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence. Bringing together government representatives, international experts, and civil society leaders, the event spotlighted the Republic of Moldova’s progress in tackling violence against women, and addressed the challenges that remain.

Minister of Labour and Social Protection Alexei Buzu stressed the importance of prioritising front-line services: "If we want to combat violence effectively, we must focus on the front line. Investments in skills, salaries, and resources for those working directly with victims are crucial. Without these, any other efforts may become less significant."

Minister of Justice Veronica Mihailov-Moraru highlighted Moldova’s commitment under the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence: "Ratifying the Istanbul Convention reinforced our dedication to European democratic values. Over the past three years, we have concentrated on prevention, protection, prosecution, and policy integration. Legislative changes have toughened penalties and improved procedural guarantees for victims."

The conference underlined the role of the Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (GREVIO), the monitoring body of the Convention, in guiding Moldova’s efforts. According to GREVIO’s 2023 report, the Republic of Moldova has taken significant steps, such as legislative reforms and establishing assistance centres.

Falk Lange, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Chisinau, emphasised the need for continued effort: "While Moldova has made commendable progress, adopting new legislative measures and improving data collection are essential. Special attention must be given to vulnerable groups, including rural women and women with disabilities. The Council of Europe will continue supporting the Republic of Moldova in these efforts."

Discussions also focused on ensuring multidisciplinary collaboration at the local level. Viorica Țîmbalari, Director of the National Agency, stressed that "Without local-level teamwork, even the best policies fall short. Specialists across fields must work together to ensure victims receive the comprehensive support they need."

Since ratifying the Istanbul Convention in 2022, Moldova has pledged to strengthen crisis centres, hotlines, and counselling services for victims of violence. The conference reaffirmed the country’s commitment to these goals and to fostering public awareness on gender equality – a cornerstone of a violence-free society.

This initiative is part of the Council of Europe project Supporting the implementation of the Istanbul Convention in the Republic of Moldova.