Moldova has always counted on the expertise of the Council of Europe in key areas, stated President Maia Sandu after a meeting with Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, who is visiting Chisinau.
“Justice reform remains a priority. Without a functioning and fair judiciary, we cannot have a developed economy or rights guaranteed by the state. That is why the changes initiated in the justice sector will continue, despite the difficulties encountered and the resistance of some people in this sector”, declared Sandu.
The president noted that today Parliament appointed three non-judge members to the Superior Council of the Judiciary (CSM) from among pre-vetted candidates. “Starting today, the CSM can make decisions about the activity of magistrates and courts, overcoming the blockage that existed before. Today Parliament will also examine the reform of the Supreme Court of Justice and the creation of commissions for the external evaluation of candidates to the Supreme Court, those from the courts and prosecutors. Next, the Government and Parliament will prepare the legal framework for the creation of the Anti-Corruption Court, which will examine grand corruption cases and judicial corruption cases, and the Ministry of Justice, the National Institute of Justice and the new SCM will work together to train and bring in new judges”, said Maia Sandu.
The president noted that a fair and independent judiciary is a precondition for the development of the economy and the consolidation of the Republic of Moldova, but also an essential condition for the country’s European journey. “For Moldova, joining the European Union is the only way that can guarantee us a secure future in a community of free countries where people live in prosperity and peace”.
Marija Pejčinović Burić condemned all intentions to destabilize democratic institutions and democratic security in the Republic of Moldova. She also congratulated Maia Sandu for her determination to continue the reform efforts in accordance with the standards of the Council of Europe. “Our experts are and will continue to be at your disposal in the context of our joint action plan to offer guidance”. Marija Pejčinović Burić added that the ratification of the Istanbul Convention by the Republic of Moldova became a clear signal of the determination of the Moldovan authorities to stop violence against women, as well as domestic violence.
The action plan of the Council of Europe for the Republic of Moldova for the period 2021 – 2024 was launched in Strasbourg in 2021. Based on the document, the Council of Europe will continue to provide assistance in priority areas: the reform of the justice sector, focused on ensuring the integrity and independence of justice stakeholders; transparency, accountability and efficiency of the sector; and the reform of the criminal prosecution and detention system.
