The People’s Assembly of Gagauzia expressed its concern about the Parliament’s decision to ban the use of the ribbon of Saint Gheorghe in the Republic of Moldova. According to the Comrat deputies, this ribbon is a symbol of victory in World War II and locals wear it at chest with pride on May 9.

In a statement, the members of the People’s Assembly of Gagauzia say that by its decision, Parliament divides society and introduces political censorship. “This decision by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova directly affects the interests of Gagauzia and its people. The People’s Assembly of Gagauzia criticizes this decision by the legislature and requests the MPs to abandon this idea so as to maintain stability in society,” runs the statement.

A bill to amend the Contravention Code that was passed by the MPs provides that the symbols and elements that promote acts of military aggression, war crimes and crimes against humanity are banned in the Republic of Moldova. Among these are the bicolor black-orange ribbon known as the ribbon of Saint George and the letters “Z” and “V”.  The persons who will spread the banned symbols, including online, will be fined.