The U.S. State Department noted “limited progress” on human rights in Moldova.

 

The under-investigated cases of torture, pressure on press freedom, and systematic violations in the Transnistrian region are just some of the serious problems highlighted in the annual report on human rights in the Republic of Moldova published by the U.S. Department of State. Although the report notes no significant changes compared to the previous year, serious human rights problems remain, especially those related to torture and inhuman treatment, as well as restrictions on freedom of expression.

The report also emphasises that the authorities in Chisinau are making efforts to prevent abuses, but progress is limited in some areas.

The report provides credible evidence of torture and degrading treatment, particularly in law enforcement and the penitentiary system. Investigations are rare and often superficial, and cases rarely go to trial. Conditions of detention, as well as lack of access to adequate medical care, continue to be an acute problem.

At the same time, although legislation guarantees freedom of the press, the report shows that it is undermined by political and financial influence. The report mentions cases of harassment and intimidation of journalists, as well as organised disinformation, which directly undermines the democratic functioning of the state.

As for the situation on the left bank of the Nistru River, the report assesses it as “extremely serious”. The document highlights cases of political repression, arbitrary detentions and torture. The Promo-LEX association, which participated in documenting the report, confirms its conclusions.

The organisation stresses that the de facto administration in Tiraspol continues to use torture as a method of intimidation and obtaining confessions without bringing the perpetrators to justice.

Recall the human rights situation in a Moldovan prison

Source: https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/moldova/