Strasbourg court highlights human rights gaps in Moldova as Cabinet reviews 2025 legal performance.
The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) delivered 48 judgments involving the Republic of Moldova in 2025, identifying at least one breach of the Convention in every case. The majority of these violations centered on the right to a fair trial and the protection of property.
The ECHR also struck out or declared inadmissible another 30 applications against the state. This data was part of a comprehensive report by the Government Agent, reviewed by the Cabinet during its session on April 8.
Systemic failures in the judiciary
Violations of Article 6—the right to a fair trial—were found in 32 cases, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all rulings against the country.
These breaches primarily involved excessive trial durations, failure to enforce final court decisions, and poorly reasoned judicial rulings. Justice Minister Vladislav Cojuhari noted that the lack of effective access to justice remains a critical hurdle.
A landmark ruling on modern slavery
For the first time in 2025, the Court found Moldova in violation of Article 4, which prohibits slavery and forced labor.
The case involved a woman with an intellectual disability who suffered labor exploitation and sexual abuse within a family placement. The ruling underscored Moldova’s lack of adequate community services to protect vulnerable individuals following deinstitutionalization.
Progress in international oversight
Despite these challenges, the Ministry of Justice reported improved cooperation with the Council of Europe. In 2025, the Government Agent submitted 42 action plans and reports to the Committee of Ministers.
This proactive approach allowed the ECHR to cease supervision of 34 cases through the adoption of final resolutions.
Minister Cojuhari emphasized that while the number of cases under "advanced supervision" is decreasing, significant work remains. Key priorities for the coming year include improving detention conditions, enhancing domestic medical care for inmates, and ensuring effective criminal investigations.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
