“The symbols of the International Red Cross are illegally used in Moldova by drugstores, health institutions and even family doctor centers”, claims Vasile Cernenchi, Director Executive of the Red Cross Society in Moldova. He noted that the Society’s symbol representing a red cross on white background is protected by international conventions ratified by Moldova as well as by the country's legislation. However the symbols are used blatantly, without authorization, in violation of the law. Vasile Cernenchi said that he was stunned when to his demand not to use the Red Cross symbol, the administration of the Ungheni District Hospital answered that they did not see any violation there. According to Vasile Cernenchi, the Red Cross symbols may only be used by the Red Cross and, with with its consent, by volunteers during war or by charity organizations that provide free medical services. The Ministry of Health should intervene to forbid the use of these symbols by medical institutions under its authority. Contacted by Info-Prim Neo, Ministry of Health adviser Mariana Berzedean said that the Ministry didn’t receive any formal notifications or complaints regarding the illegal use of Red Cross symbols, and in their absence the Ministry has its hands tied.