Representatives of the Republic of Moldova participated in the 20th European Conference of Therapeutic Communities (EFTC) in Bordeaux, France - one of Europe’s leading forums for professionals working in the fields of addiction treatment, recovery, rehabilitation and harm reduction.

Participation in the conference enabled the Moldovan delegation to establish and strengthen professional contacts with experts and institutions from several European countries and beyond. These exchanges provided valuable opportunities for knowledge sharing and future co-operation. Among the outcomes of the event were strengthened professional links with representatives of therapeutic community networks and organisations from Spain, Norway, Ireland, Malta, Australia and other countries.

The knowledge and experience gained during the conference will contribute to ongoing efforts to strengthen evidence-based, human rights-oriented and recovery-focused responses to drug use and addictive behaviours in the Republic of Moldova. The insights acquired are particularly relevant for the further development of rehabilitation and treatment services within the penitentiary system and for supporting the implementation of national drug policy objectives in line with European standards and good practices.

The participation of the Moldovan delegation was welcomed by Bureau Member of the Pompidou Group, Mr Jože Hren, who underlined the importance of international co-operation in strengthening therapeutic community approaches.

The participation took place within the framework of the Council of Europe project “Supporting the Republic of Moldova in addressing the risks and harms related to drug use and addictive behaviors”.