For the first time in several years, the number of inmates in prisons has increased - an alarming indicator, says People’s Advocate Ceslav Panico. The number rose by 150 people over the past year. As of January 1, 2024, there were 5,695 convicted individuals, while by January 1, 2025, this figure had reached 5,844. According to the ombudsman, the percentage increase is not significant - 2.5% - but the trend must be stopped, IPN reports.

At the same time, cases of violence are decreasing, but the number remains high, at nearly 1,000 cases per year.

These statistics are part of the thematic report “Safety and Security of Inmates in the Penitentiary System: Realities and Perspectives”, which was presented during public hearings held in Parliament.

The report’s main findings highlight the persistence of criminal subculture, including alcohol and drug consumption, outdated prison infrastructure, insufficient staff, and poor detention conditions in some facilities.

According to the report, Moldova is among the European countries with the highest incarceration rates relative to population.

Authorities acknowledge the issue. Grigore Novac, chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Human Rights and Interethnic Relations, emphasized that the problems are alarming. Parliament is ready to intervene if the responsible institutions propose legislative improvements and necessary mechanisms, he noted.

"There aren’t enough staff members in the system, so monitoring is inadequate. As a result, prohibited objects enter the prisons, and the criminal subculture develops. Once that happens, we see schemes like the 'relative in an accident' scam or the 'bank representative' fraud, which lead to further crimes," Novac explained.

The Ministry of Justice is aware of the deficiencies in prisons, stated State Secretary Ruslan Lungu, assuring that measures are being taken to address specific issues.

"We are currently discussing a proposal to provide social guarantees for penitentiary employees, similar to those for prosecutors and judges. This includes compensation for transportation or housing costs when working in locations outside their place of residence," Lungu specified.

These and other proposals are under discussion, and if finalized, they will be submitted to Parliament, Lungu concluded.