Moldova's penitentiary system remains a critical issue, drawing sharp criticism from the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe. During its December 2024 session, the Committee urged Moldovan authorities to take immediate action to address deficiencies in prisons, with a particular focus on medical care, reports Promo-Lex via IPN.
Unaccredited hospitals and doctor shortages
The situation in prison hospitals is alarming. Facilities like the Prison Hospital and the medical units in Penitentiaries No. 6 and No. 10 lack accreditation as healthcare institutions. The Committee demanded a clear strategy with precise deadlines for obtaining accreditation.
Another pressing concern is the shortage of medical staff. Moldovan prisons face a systemic lack of specialist doctors. The Committee of Ministers called for urgent recruitment efforts, suggesting incentives and more competitive salary packages.
Limited access to treatments and medication
Prisoners do not have access to the same medical services as the general population. The Committee urged authorities to provide a clear list of state-funded treatments and medications available to inmates. Ensuring that the level of care in prisons matches that of the public healthcare system is essential.
Failing medical system
The organizational model of prison healthcare was also criticized. The Committee recommended transferring responsibility for medical services in prisons to the Ministry of Health. Such a reform could bring significant improvements in both organization and the quality of care provided.
Humanitarian release: a murky solution
The Committee requested clarifications on mechanisms for humanitarian release for critically ill inmates. The absence of clear examples in case law raises questions about the practical application of this measure.
Individual cases and pending decisions
The cases of Machina and Nitu, part of the Cosovan vs. Moldova group of cases, were discussed in detail. In the Machina case, a complaint about detention conditions filed in 2019 remains unresolved. The Committee called for an urgent resolution of this matter.
In the Nitu case, authorities were encouraged to ensure adequate psychiatric treatment and to implement therapeutic activities tailored to the claimant's needs.
"Solutions exist, but willpower is needed"
Vadim Vieru, a lawyer with Promo-LEX, emphasized the importance of dialogue between authorities, civil society, and international partners. "Improving prison conditions, especially access to medical services, is vital for upholding human rights. Swift solutions and the will to implement them are needed," Vieru stated.
The Committee of Ministers will continue monitoring the Cosovan vs. Moldova case in 2025, urging the implementation of recommended measures. The focus remains on hospital accreditation, staff recruitment, and ensuring humane conditions for inmates.
Moldova's prison issues are longstanding challenges, but pressure from the Council of Europe may drive change. Whether the authorities will act to ensure a system that upholds human dignity remains to be seen.
