Moldova accelerates justice reform in EU accession process

The Ministry of Justice continues to coordinate the implementation of commitments made by the Republic of Moldova within the European agenda, with significant progress in the fields of justice, anti-corruption, and the protection of fundamental rights. Minister of Justice Vladislav Cojuhari made the statements during the conference '2025 Enlargement Report: Progress and Future Priorities of the Republic of Moldova', held today in Chisinau.

According to the minister, out of the nine conditions set by the European Commission for granting candidate country status, six directly targeted the reform of the justice system, fighting corruption, and strengthening human rights, areas where Moldova has made visible progress.

'Justice is the backbone of the European integration process. The reform agenda obligates us to heightened vigilance, maintaining integrity standards, and involving all actors in strengthening democratic institutions,' highlighted Vladislav Cojuhari, noting that the Ministry of Justice coordinates the implementation of two Roadmaps from Cluster 1 – Chapter 23 'Justice and Fundamental Rights' and the Chapter on 'Functioning of Democratic Institutions'.

In 2024, the institution led the preparation process for the explanatory and bilateral screening exercise with the European Commission, involving over 30 institutions from the Republic of Moldova. Additionally, the first stage of transposing and implementing EU legislation in the field of justice, freedom, and security was achieved, contributing to the strengthening of international judicial cooperation and harmonization of the procedural framework with European standards.

Moldova also joined the European programs JUST and CERV (2021–2027), which provide financial support, technical expertise, and professional training for reforming the judiciary, promoting e-justice, and strengthening the rule of law.

The Minister of Justice also highlighted the increase in institutional capacity in extraditions and international cooperation - between 2019-2024, the Republic of Moldova ensured the extradition of 47 internationally wanted persons, with 41 from Italy, four from the United Kingdom, and two from Greece. Meanwhile, the state's representation before international courts has been strengthened, which demonstrates the efficiency and credibility of the national judicial system.


'Integrity remains the key criterion in the selection process of judges for the Supreme Court of Justice and the CSM and CSP colleges. Strengthening the rule of law and promoting democratic values depend on the professionalism and involvement of every actor in the justice system,' emphasized Vladislav Cojuhari.


During the conference, the Minister of Justice also responded to observations from the audience that 'justice reform would have been missed'.

The official stressed that justice reform is a long-term process, which is not achieved overnight, but is built step by step, through consistency, transparency, and commitment.


'Criticism is welcome – it helps us see more clearly what needs to be improved. Reforms will continue, regardless of difficulties. These things are not done for me or the current team, they are done for the coming generation, so that young people live in a country with fair institutions and independent justice,' declared Cojuhari.


The official mentioned that the vetting process – assessing the integrity and professionalism of magistrates – is in full progress and represents one of the most complex and important stages of judicial reform.


'The entire government team is committed to fighting for integrity, accountability, and fairness, so that the rule of law is not just a concept but a tangible reality for every citizen,' underlined the minister.


Furthermore, Vladislav Cojuhari emphasized the need for prudent and efficient management of public resources, stating that 'every euro cent must be well managed and optimized, so that reforms bring real and sustainable results'.

In conclusion, the Minister of Justice reiterated that modernizing the justice system is an irreversible commitment of the Republic of Moldova on the path of European integration and a moral duty to future generations.


'Through its efforts, the Ministry of Justice reaffirms the firm commitment of the Republic of Moldova to build a transparent, fair, and resilient judicial system, fully in accordance with European principles and values,' summarized Cojuhari.


The annual report on the EU enlargement, presented by the European Commission in November 2025, confirms the highest rate of progress for the Republic of Moldova since gaining candidate country status. According to the assessment, Chisinau has made progress in all 33 negotiation chapters, with 19 advancing to a superior level of readiness compared to the previous year.