Promo-LEX expert highlights prison issues and slow torture investigations
The Republic of Moldova is making gradual progress in human rights; however, prison conditions and the investigation of torture cases remain significant areas of concern. Vadim Vieru, an expert from the Promo-LEX Association, highlights that prison overcrowding and a shortage of medical personnel continue to impact the system, despite some improvements.
The Republic of Moldova has been rated a "moderate risk" in the Global Torture Index 2026, revealing significant vulnerabilities in its system. The Promo-LEX Association highlights that while “the system is improving quite slowly, there is still some progress in this area.”
Penitentiary institutions: The most vulnerable link in the system
“The primary issues are related to overpopulation; this is a longstanding problem that we still face. The construction of a new penitentiary, intended to replace Penitentiary Nb. 13, has also been delayed—a project that has been in the works for many years, and it's unclear when it will actually be built. Additionally, we have two parallel medical systems: the public health system and the penitentiary system. Neither can adequately address the serious needs of the penitentiary system, particularly regarding human resources. We are facing a shortage of doctors, as well as a lack of medicines and equipment,” stated Vadim Vieru, a lawyer and expert from the Promo-LEX Association, in an interview with Moldova 1.
Hundreds of complaints about torture, few cases in court
The expert also pointed out that one of the most pressing issues is the investigation of torture allegations. The significant disparity between the number of complaints and the number of cases referred to court raises concerns about the effectiveness of criminal prosecutions.
“Every year, over 200 complaints regarding torture and inhuman or degrading treatment are submitted. However, only a very small number of these complaints are investigated and sent to court, which raises questions about the quality of criminal prosecution in these types of cases,” noted Vieru.
Delayed investigations: A source of criticism from the European Court
The Promo-LEX expert emphasized that the Republic of Moldova continues to violate European standards regarding the timely examination of torture cases, a fact that has been consistently criticized by the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR).
“The delays are unacceptable. The ECtHR clearly establishes in its rulings that acts of torture must be investigated promptly. Unfortunately, we observe that investigations often take over a year, which is quite unacceptable, as highlighted in many ECtHR decisions against the Republic of Moldova. The European Court has criticized the slow pace of investigations into such incidents,” concluded Vadim Vieru during the show on public television.
The Global Torture Index 2026 revealed that in four out of the seven areas assessed, the risk of torture is considerable. The main issues identified are poor detention conditions, police abuse, a lack of accountability, and inadequate support for victims’ rights.
The report also indicated that investigations into torture cases take, on average, over four years to complete, and fewer than five percent of complaints lead to a conviction. Additionally, victims struggle to access compensation and rehabilitation services, while the prison system continues to grapple with overcrowding.
Last year, nearly 300 criminal cases were reported related to torture and ill-treatment by state agents. However, prosecutors initiated only 76 investigations, with only 9 addressing incidents that occurred within police stations, including one involving a minor. These statistics highlight that effective law enforcement and victim protection remain significant challenges for the justice system in the Republic of Moldova.
