“Over the past 26 years, the Council of Europe and the Republic of Moldova have been working together towards a common vision: equal rights and equal opportunities for all. When at a crossroads, the Council of Europe proved to be a dedicated partner of the Republic of Moldova and will continue to stand by its citizens to defend democratic values, human rights and the rule of law. The people’s vote in recent early parliamentary elections is an essential part of the democratic process. The Council of Europe stands ready to extend its full cooperation in its area of expertise with the new Parliament and Government,” William Massolin, Head of the Council of Europe Office in Chisinau, stated on the occasion of the 26th anniversary since the Republic of Moldova became a full-fledged member of the Council of Europe, IPN reports, quoting a press release of the Council of Europe Office in Chisinau.

William Massolin said that since the Republic of Moldova’s accession, the Council of Europe has consistently supported the development of the legislative and institutional framework of the country, which has ensured its transition from a totalitarian regime to a democratic system. Since its membership, Moldovan citizens have had free access to European justice and their rights are protected by the most important Conventions ratified by the State.

The Republic of Moldova was the first CIS state to join the Council of Europe. Its membership in the Council of Europe, together with 46 other European states, continues to be a driving force on Moldova’s path towards democracy and the rule of law.

Despite some restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the office team, together with the beneficiaries of our projects, have worked to ensure the smooth implementation of our common objectives in our many fields of work.

This year was marked by two major events: the official launching of the new Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova and the 10th anniversary of the Istanbul Convention. The Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2021-2024 was officially launched in Strasbourg for the first time in presence of Maia Sandu, President of the Republic of Moldova and Marija Pejčinović Burić, Council of Europe Secretary General, noted William Massolin.