On March 19, the Republic of Moldova will officially implement International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention No. 190, an "essential tool in combating violence and harassment in the workplace." During a press conference, MP Angela Munteanu-Pojoga emphasized that this is a significant day not only for labor legislation but also for the fundamental rights of workers across all sectors in Moldova, IPN reports.
Angela Munteanu-Pojoga stated that "the ratification of this document is a firm commitment by the authorities and all labor sector stakeholders - including the Government, trade unions, and employers - to put an end to workplace violence and harassment in every field." She highlighted that the convention ensures all employees, regardless of their sector, employment status, or contract type, have the right to a safe workplace free from violence and harassment.
The MP further clarified that the convention addresses not only physical or verbal violence but also aims to combat all forms of harassment and violence that impact employees' dignity and health, including sexual harassment and psychological harassment.
"By ratifying this convention, the Republic of Moldova takes an important step toward establishing a solid, clear, and effective legal framework for employee protection. Implementation will involve developing policies and mechanisms to combat and prevent workplace violence and harassment," Angela Munteanu-Pojoga declared.
The UN Resident Coordinator in Moldova, Yesim Oruc, stressed that this is the first international instrument to set a global standard for combating harassment and violence in the workplace. It also outlines specific measures that states must take to protect employees.
Yesim Oruc stated that the implementation of ILO Convention No. 190 will be a crucial step toward eliminating workplace violence and fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment for all. "Together, through collaborative actions, we can ensure that the principles of dignity, respect, and fairness are fully upheld in every workplace in Moldova," said the ILO representative.
Mihai-Gabriel Ciobanu, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, highlighted that the convention introduces clear regulations for combating workplace violence and harassment. It defines these issues - whether physical, psychological, sexual, or economic - to provide legal clarity on the matter.
"We will incorporate these principles into national legislation, ensuring a clear definition of workplace violence and harassment so that every employer and employee understands what constitutes abuse in all its forms", Mihai-Gabriel Ciobanu explained.
The State Secretary also announced that mechanisms will be put in place to allow victims to report cases without fear, and employers will be required to implement clear anti-harassment policies within their internal regulations.
ILO Convention No. 190 on Violence and Harassment in the World of Work was adopted in Geneva on June 21, 2019, and ratified by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova at the end of 2023.
