In the Republic of Moldova, women with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities remain largely invisible within the system designed to prevent and respond to violence against women and domestic violence. Evidence shows that women with disabilities are two to five times more likely to experience violence than other women.

These concerns are highlighted in the recent study Assessment of the Legal Framework and Protection Mechanisms for Women with Psychosocial and Intellectual Disabilities Who Are Victims of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence in the Republic of Moldova, carried out within the framework of the Council of Europe project Supporting the implementation of the Istanbul Convention in the Republic of Moldova – Phase II.

The study finds that, although national legislation guarantees protection from violence, it does not consistently address the specific needs of women with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities. Access to justice and support services remains limited due to poorly adapted services, communication and behaviour barriers, insufficient data, and a lack of specialised training, leading to underreporting and under-identification of cases.

Women with psychosocial and intellectual disabilities do not need special protection because they are different, but because existing barriers prevent them from equally enjoying the rights they already have. The state’s obligation is not only to prevent violence, but to ensure that every woman, regardless of disability, can access the protection, justice, and support she needs”, says one of the authors of the Study, Violeta Gașițoi. 

The European Court of Human Rights case law confirms that formal safeguards are not enough and that effective protection requires tailored responses to victims’ vulnerabilities. The authors conclude that these gaps can be addressed through the consistent implementation of existing laws and international standards rather than new legislation, to ensure a more accessible, inclusive and victim-centred system.

Key national institutions, including the Superior Council of Magistracy, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Ministry of Health, the Family Justice Centre, the Equality Council and the Ombudsperson’s Office, contributed to the study, which was presented to authorities, with the participation of 24 representatives in person and online.