What do human rights mean in everyday life? How can they be protected? And who stands by people when their rights are violated? These questions were at the heart of the third edition of the Human Rights Caravan, which travelled to Fălești, Hîncești and Comrat this summer, bringing dialogue on human rights and fundamental freedoms closer to local communities.

The event brought together international organisations, national and local public authorities, independent institutions, civil society organisations and citizens, providing a platform for dialogue, exchange of experience and public awareness. In an open and inclusive environment, children, young people, adults and older persons had the opportunity to explore, through accessible and interactive activities, what human rights are and how they can be protected.

The Ombudsperson’s Office further presented its mandate in all three communities, providing information on its current activities, as well as on the procedures for submitting complaints and the support available to individuals whose rights have been violated, thereby further strengthening its outreach to local communities. Together with the Ombudsperson's Office and other partners, the Council of Europe promoted the values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law through information materials and interactive activities.

Beyond the public events, the event also included visits to villages across the three districts and meetings with local public authorities. These activities contributed to identifying local human rights challenges, strengthening dialogue between institutions and citizens, and promoting a culture of respect for human rights based on participation, inclusion and shared responsibility.

The third edition of the Human Rights Caravan once again demonstrated that the promotion of human rights is most effective when it is built on direct dialogue with people, active community engagement and strong cooperation between institutions and citizens.

The event was organised with the support of the Council of Europe, within the framework of the projects Support to the Office of the Ombudsperson in the protection of human rights in the Republic of Moldova - Phase II, Combating discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes in the Republic of Moldova, and Promoting multilevel dialogue, open government and human rights at local level in the Republic of Moldova, funded under the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2025–2028.