The complaints submitted by victims of torture in Moldova have increased in number, but not many of these cases are sent to court. This shows that the investigations are imperfect, but it is practically impossible to charge police officers with ill-treatment. According to a report by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), which was compiled with the assistance of Promo-LEX Moldova, 54% of the cases of torture reported last year in Moldova happened in police stations, 26% – in public places, while 8% – in detention places, IPN reports.
Promo-LEX program director Pavel Postica said the access to medical and psychological assistance in penitentiaries is deficient as there is no elementary equipment for treating teeth or for radiography. The detainees do not have confidence in the psychologists, considering them loyal to the penitentiary’s administration. The fact that the psychologists are dressed in uniforms does not contribute to establishing relations of trust with the prisoners. The report says the lawyers do not really become involved in defending the client’s rights and provide services only formally.
FIDH president of honor Souhayr Belhcassen referred to the situation in the Transnistrian region, describing it as alarming. The Transnistrian legislation is not internationally recognized and thus the authorities of the region do not obey the international laws and standards. The ensuring of the observance of prisoners’ rights is not a priority for the Transnistrian authorities.
FIDH secretary general Artak Kirakosyan made recommendations concerning the amelioration of the situation, saying the authorities should continue the reforms in the justice sector and the improvement of the penitentiary system. As to the Transnistrian region, the expert said that even if a political problem is faced, the law enforcement bodies there should work properly and comply with the international standards.
