Inclusion et anti-discrimination

Representatives of the General Police Inspectorate, Roma community leaders and mediators, civil society organisations, and other key actors on Roma protection gathered for a roundtable discussion aimed at strengthening dialogue, cooperation, and to further contribute to better protection of Roma rights in the Republic of Moldova.

This is the first national‑level cooperation platform between Roma communities and law enforcement, creating a safe and open space for dialogue and collaboration that takes into account community needs and local‑level realities.

Participants discussed the legal framework and measures implemented by Police to protect Roma people from hatred, discrimination, and other forms of abuse. The meeting also reviewed the current cases faced by Roma persons, and the mechanisms available for reporting and addressing such incidents.

Alexandru LUPAN, deputy head of the General Police Inspectorate stated: “The event is of particular importance to the General Police Inspectorate, because it represents the first initiative to create a platform of dialogue between representatives of the Roma community and representatives of National Police. For us it is important to gain a better understanding of the challenges and needs faced by the Roma community and, together with institutional partners and civil society, to identify solutions aimed at protecting the rights and ensuring the safety of all citizens”.

A key focus of the discussion was the challenges faced by the Roma community, including barriers to accessing justice and the need for stronger trust between law enforcement authorities and Roma citizens. Participants also identified areas where communication and collaboration could be improved, highlighting the crucial role of community mediators.

Elena RADIȚA, Roma community mediator in the city Rîșcani, highlighted that: “Trust between Police and the Roma community is built through constant dialogue, mutual respect, and a genuine presence within the community, not only during conflict situations. Police play an important role not only in intervention process, but also in prevention, awareness-raising, and ensuring equal protection for every citizen. Effective collaboration happens when Roma people are listened, treated with dignity, and involved as partners in addressing and solving community issues”.

The roundtable concluded with a constructive dialogue on practical solutions to strengthen cooperation between the Roma community and the Police, with the shared goal of ensuring better protection for victims, exchange of contacts between participants to improve reporting mechanisms, and fostering mutual trust and understanding.

This round table was organised in cooperation with the General Police Inspectorate in the framework of the projects of the Council of Europe: "Combating discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes in the Republic of Moldova" and  "Enhancing diversity and equality - phase II",  implemented within the framework of the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova for the years 2025-2028.