ICMPD is advancing the operational practices and legal safeguards for migrants and asylum seekers crossing Moldova’s borders. Working with the country’s Border Police and the Ombudsman Office, ICMPD hosted a workshop and consultations focused on human rights at the border, including entry and exit, data protection, and asylum safeguards.
The workshop on 30 October in Chișinău addressed mechanisms to prevent abuse such as in detention, access to legal aid, and complaint procedures. Under the framework of the SCOP 3.1 project, the workshop aimed to strengthen institutional cooperation with the Moldovan government, to align with international and European human rights obligations. Discussions also centred on the findings of two recent reports by the Ombudsman Office on human rights at the border, one of which focused specifically on the situation at Chișinău International Airport.
Acknowledging the complex challenges facing border authorities including the impact of the war in Ukraine, increased migratory flows and limited resources, Mr Ceslav Panico, People’s Advocate (Ombudsman) emphasised the importance of continued cooperation.
Our duty to uphold and promote human rights remains unchanged. This workshop is a testament to our continued commitment and the importance of partnership, especially as Moldova moves forward on its EU accession path.he said
The workshop also underscored Moldova’s efforts to align its regulatory framework with EU standards, especially in the context of the new Pact on Migration and Asylum. A follow-up session will be organised for regional units of the Border Police to continue this dialogue and support capacity development.
Funded by the Czech Ministry of the Interior and implemented by ICMPD, the SCOP project supports Moldovan authorities in enhancing migration and border management systems in line with the EU acquis. It contributes to building the resilience of Moldova’s Border Police and improving their ability to respond to crisis situations. In the context of Moldova’s EU candidate status and regional security challenges, the SCOP 3.1 project plays a key role in promoting cross-border cooperation, combating transnational crime, and improving service delivery at the border.