New order to be established in Moldova - Order of Freedom

The parliament of Moldova has voted, in the final reading, a draft that revises the system of state distinctions, establishing new orders and medals, among which there is the Order of Freedom. The legislative initiative was backed by 62 MPs. The parliamentary opposition walked out of the session hall.

The new law stipulates that the system of distinctions will be structured into four types: orders, crosses, medals and honorary titles. The Order of Freedom will be awarded to individuals who significantly contribute to promoting democracy, human rights, equality, pluralism, freedom of expression and tolerance. The distinction will also honor involvement in protecting cultural heritage, supporting charitable actions and constant social commitment.

At the same time, the law institutes a new medal - the Academic Merit, which will have two classes. The medal will be awarded to teachers, researchers and other professionals in the fields of education, research and innovation for exceptional pedagogical activity, significant scientific contributions and involvement in the moral, intellectual and civic development of the young generation.

Among other important changes, there are: renaming of the Order of Labour Glory into the Order of Labour, with a new artistic design and class structure; raising the Military Merit medal to the rank of a cross; renaming and changing the artistic concept for the Civic Merit medal and the Order of Honor (which becomes the Order of the Honor).

The law also introduces penalties for the illegal wearing, trading or falsifying of state distinctions.

Another novelty is that all distinctions will be awarded on a single day each year - August 27, the Independence Day of the Republic of Moldova.