Environmental NGOs' representatives trained in alternative methods for resolving environmental conflicts in Moldova

Representatives of environmental organizations from Moldova have benefited from training aimed at strengthening civil society’s capacity to use available legal tools and dialogue mechanisms for environmental protection and the defense of environmental rights.

The activity was organized by the NGO EcoContact, in the context of the Engagement Week (June 1-7) and World Environment Day, marked annually on  June 5.

The training programme was addressed to representatives of non-governmental organizations and environmental defenders of Moldova, with the goal of strengthening their capacity to defend the right to a healthy and sustainable environment and to intervene in a qualified manner in environmental conflicts.

The trainings were attended by 24 participants, who, during two days, went through the relevant legal framework and alternative dispute resolution methods. The first day was dedicated to the legal instruments available to civil society in the environmental field, mechanisms for notifying authorities, legal deadlines and avenues for appeal.

The second day focused on alternative ways for resolving environmental disputes. During sessions led by experts from the Mediation Academy, participants familiarized themselves with the principles of mediation in conflicts involving public interests, techniques for facilitating dialogue among multiple stakeholders, and the particularities of interventions in situations where the community, local authorities and an economic operator are simultaneously involved. Special attention was given to situations in which mediation and facilitated dialogue are faster and more accessible ways of resolving disputes than court proceedings.

The activity took place within the project, Green Justice for a Protected Environment and Sustainable Communities of Moldova, implemented by EcoContact with the financial support of Sweden.