Moldova moved up to Tier 2 in trafficking in persons

The United States Government has determined that Moldova be placed on the Trafficking in Persons Tier 2 Watch List, an improvement from the previous determination of Tier 3 (the lowest ranking), in recognition of efforts made by the Government of Moldova to address serious trafficking in persons problems, Info-Prim Neo reports, quoting a press release from the U.S. Embassy in Moldova. According to the Embassy, through such determinations, the United States seeks to raise awareness of this global problem, highlight efforts of the international community and encourage foreign governments to take effective actions to counter all forms of human trafficking. Among the positive steps taken by Moldova are re-opening investigations involving allegations of high level complicity and opening new investigations of alleged trafficking involving law enforcement officials. The Government of Moldova has also made high-level public statements condemning trafficking-related complicity, drafted a code of conduct for law enforcement personnel, initiated vetting procedures for public officials involved in combating trafficking and established an anonymous reporting mechanism for trafficking-related complicity.