A group of nongovernmental human rights organizations note that a lot of the obligations concerning torture and ill-treatment that were undertaken by Moldova at foreign level should be immediately fulfilled. On the occasion of the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the NGOs addressed a public statement to the Government, Parliament and the international institutions working in Chisinau, asking to prevent and fight torture and to offer support to victims, IPN reports.

Ludmila Popovici, director of the Rehabilitation Center for Torture Victims “Memoria”, in a roundtable meeting said it is regrettable that the survivors of acts of torture in Moldova are discriminated, made to remain silence and are ignored by the state institutions. “Their rehabilitation should include complete integration and active participation in society. For the purpose, the victims need support and a coherent legal framework,” stated Ludmila Popovici.

Lela Metreveli, director of the Human Rights Embassy, said an effective investigation should be conducted in each case of torture, inhuman or degrading treatment. Regrettably, in many cases the state institutions simulate the fight against corruption and those who use torture, instead of being held accountable, get rid of punishment and are even promoted to higher posts.

Amnesty International Moldova representative Igor Stoica underlined that the organization he represents is permanently notified of cases of use of torture and inhuman and degrading treatment in detention places. “We ascertained that no designed human rights action plan provides remedies to the victims of torture, ignoring thus their value and dignity as citizens with equal rights,” stated Igor Stoica.

Jurist of the Legal Resources Center Ion Guzun said the convictions by the ECHR show the use of torture and inhuman treatment remains a major problem in the Republic of Moldova.

Vadim Vieru, of Promo-LEX Association, stated the Government of Moldova should make progress in reforming the penitentiary system by ensuring acceptable detention conditions in accordance with the international standards. Also, the medical service should be transferred rom the Ministry of Justice to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Social Protection.

The signatory organizations request the authorities to contribute to the UN Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture that in over 35 years of activity has been the only hope for global rehabilitation centers that provide services and support to victims and their families.