The EU and Moldova reaffirmed their shared values and mutual commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, which are also enshrined in the EU-Moldova Association Agreement. It underscored Moldova’s sustained reform efforts and acknowledged the progress the country has achieved on its EU accession path. In this regard, the EU encouraged Moldova to continue efforts in strengthening the respect, protection and fulfilment of human rights.

The participants also recalled that Russia’s illegal war of aggression against Ukraine has caused unspeakable suffering and negative impact on the enjoyment of human rights in Ukraine and beyond. In this regard, the unwavering solidarity of Moldova and the Moldovan people with Ukraine has been appreciated.

The meeting provided the opportunity to review key policy developments since the previous Dialogue in 2022. Discussions covered a wide scope of areas and ranged from Moldova's national human rights policy and cooperation in international fora to developments in the electoral framework, media freedom and pluralism. Participants also discussed upholding human rights in the justice system, labour rights, the rights of the child and the efforts to promote equality and address discrimination, including gender equality, the rights of persons with disabilities, the rights of LGBTI persons and the rights of persons belonging to minorities.

The EU welcomed positive developments in Moldova, such as the adoption of programs to promote gender equality, support the Roma population, and implement a strategy for strengthening inter-ethnic relations. Additionally, the EU acknowledged the steps taken on childcare reforms and the deinstitutionalization process, as well as measures to ensure compliance with the Istanbul Convention, emphasizing the need for their continuation.

In the media environment, the EU welcomed steps taken to improve transparency and address media concentration, in line with Moldova’s commitments to the de-oligarchisation process. In the electoral framework, the EU encouraged Moldova to fully consider the recommendations by OSCE/ODIHR and align the latest changes to the Electoral Code with the forthcoming opinion from the Venice Commission. Finally, the EU underscored the importance of continuing to strengthen institutional capacity and fostering meaningful cooperation with civil society.

The EU reiterated its call on Moldova to pursue decisive efforts to bring the conditions of detentions in line with international standards and to thoroughly investigate and prosecute, as well as effectively sanction any act of torture or ill-treatment in detention facilities.

The Dialogue was co-chaired by Mr Eduard Serbenco, Secretary of State, Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Moldova and Ms Dorota Dlouchy-Suliga, Head of Division for Georgia, Moldova, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Belarus of the European External Action Service.

The next Human Rights Dialogue between the EU and Moldova is scheduled to take place in Brussels in 2024.