U.S. Department of State Human Rights Report: Moldovan government makes credible steps to identify, sanction officials who committed abuses

The government has made credible steps, in order to identify and sanction officials who have committed abuses, but progress has been slow. Thus, throughout 2024, no significant changes in the human rights situation were recorded in Moldova. The conclusion is included in the U.S. Department of State Report on human rights for 2024.

The document notes the influence of oligarchs and Russia on some national media, affecting their independence. At the same time, cases of journalists’ intimidation and harassment, as well as the spread of disinformation, were established. The report also highlights the "influence of the fugitive pro-Kremlin oligarch Ilan Shor on the media landscape."

Moreover, the report denotes recent legislative measures, including the Law on Access to Public Interest Information, which came into effect on January 8, 2024, contributing to "increasing transparency and civil society’s involvement in the decision-making process." Additionally, the Law on Freedom of Expression is mentioned as well, enforced also in case of media, and "authorities, in general, observe this right"

The report's experts note a serious situation regarding human rights on the left bank of the Dniester in terms of "respect for personal freedom and safety."

"In the Transnistrian region, the so-called authorities have used the Anti-Extremism Strategy to silence dissent and suppress freedom of expression, supplementing the existing 'anti-extremism law.' Hence, more people have been charged under this law for publicly criticizing the 'so-called authorities' or expressing opposing viewpoints, including regarding Russia's war against Ukraine. Public insults against the 'so-called leader' of the region might be punished by a fine or up to five years in prison. Additionally, the 'so-called authorities' have censored media outlets, including by controlling licensing and accreditations. Journalists regularly practiced self-censorship and avoided criticizing the so-called leadership," reads the report.

Referring to the right bank of the Dniester, the report highlights that the Moldovan government has recorded more positive developments concerning the human rights. In this regard, no forced disappearances committed by authorities have been reported. The prohibition of pro-war propaganda symbols is also maintained, with the proper sanctions imposed.

"More symbols which represent Russia's military operations stay banned, including the 'Z' and 'V' symbols used by Russia during the invasion of Ukraine, as well as the Saint George ribbon. Thus, the General Police Inspectorate reported 189 infringements concerning the banned symbols on May 9, Victory Day," the document states.

At the same time, the report finds out the observance of trade unions’ rights and the freedom of association, with the possibility to strike. Another regulation is the enforcement of safety and health standards at the workplace.

In terms of justice, the report notes that legislation against arbitrary arrests is observed. There is also an increase in the number of investigations into torture cases, many initiated ex officio.

As for the international cooperation, the report points to the collaboration with the United Nations and other partners to support refugees, with procedures compliant with international standards, as well as the existence of legislative reform to accelerate asylum and extradition processes.

The U.S. Department of State's annual report is an international tool that assesses the human rights situation, including in the Transnistrian region.

The document serves as a tool for supporting and improving policies and practices in the field.