New torture prevention mechanism to be established in Moldova

The Moldovan Human Rights Centre (MHRC) will establish an Advisory Council to serve as a national torture prevention mechanism, Info-Prim Neo reports. The statute of the council has been approved by the chairperson of the MHRC, Raisa Apolschii, following a formal approval of the parliamentary commission for human rights. On July 26, 2007, the Parliament passed a series of legislative amendments, enabling the MHRC to set up an advisory council that will provide advice and assistance to ombudsmen and serve as a national torture prevention mechanism. The council will consist of representatives of human rights NGOs. One of the duties of the council’s members will be to periodically tour facilities accommodating persons deprived of their liberty.