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Moldova Takes Significant Steps to Combat Corruption Ahead of EU Integration
CHISINAU, MOLDOVA - As Moldova continues its path towards European integration, the country has made significant strides in strengthening its rule of law and anti-corruption mechanisms. A joint project between the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union (EU), implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, is supporting Moldova’s efforts to prevent and combat corruption.
A Comprehensive Approach to Anti-Corruption
The “Strengthening the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Mechanisms in the Republic of Moldova” project, which runs from 2020 to 2025, aims to contribute to the prevention and fight against corruption in Moldova. The project’s objectives are:
- Engage civil society in corruption prevention
- Strengthen institutional and operational capacities of specialized investigative authorities and public prosecutor’s offices
- Ensure efficient corruption and money laundering prevention
- Enhance communication and cooperation skills among partner institutions
Increased Capacity and Awareness
The project has made significant progress in increasing the capacity and awareness of citizens, especially at the local level, on the harms of corruption and ways to prevent it. Additionally, the institutional and operational capacities of specialized investigation and prosecutors’ bodies have been strengthened, allowing for more effective prevention and fight against corruption and money laundering.
Progress in Asset Recovery and Confiscation
The national criminal asset recovery system has been fully established, with a progressive track record for identifying, freezing, managing, and confiscating criminal assets. Effective systems of declaration of assets and conflicts of interest have also been implemented, while measures to prevent corruption risks in high-risk sectors have been strengthened.
EU Integration and Support
Moldova’s commitment to anti-corruption efforts has been recognized by the European Commission, which opened accession negotiations with the country in 2022. The project aligns with Moldova’s path towards becoming a member of the EU, specifically in the area of anti-corruption and judicial reform.
Support from International Partners
The project is co-funded by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), demonstrating international support for Moldova’s efforts to combat corruption. The partnership between GIZ and the Moldovan government underscores the importance of collaboration in achieving a transparent, accountable, and democratic future.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Moldova continues on its journey towards EU integration, it is clear that the country has made significant progress in strengthening its rule of law and anti-corruption mechanisms. With continued international support and commitment from the government and civil society, Moldova is poised to become a more stable and prosperous nation for all its citizens.