Solidaritätsnetz International monitoring compliance with democratic standards and fundamental rights across the European continent expresses its deep concern regarding the situation in the Republic of Moldova, particularly in the context of the parliamentary elections and the participation of women in political life.
According to recent reports from international and national observers, as well as findings by recognized research bodies, a significant proportion of women candidates have faced various forms of pressure and violence during the electoral process — including psychological abuse, online harassment, smear campaigns, and other forms of targeted intimidation. These incidents not only threaten the personal security of the candidates involved but also undermine the democratic mechanisms that guarantee equal participation for all citizens, and especially for women, in political processes.
We emphasize that such developments contradict key principles enshrined in international and European standards, including the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention, the Copenhagen criteria of the European Union, and OSCE guidelines on the participation of women in public and political life. States are obligated to ensure a safe environment for all participants in democratic processes, prevent harassment and discrimination, respond effectively to threats, and maintain a legal framework that protects fundamental rights.
We believe that the authorities of the Republic of Moldova bear a direct responsibility to create political conditions in which every woman can participate in public affairs without the risk of intimidation, coercion, or attempts to undermine her credibility. The insufficient reaction of state institutions to numerous reports of aggression and violations creates a perception of impunity and raises questions about the country’s adherence to its declared European integration path.
In this regard, our organization intends to prepare and submit an official protest letter to the relevant institutions of the European Union — including the European External Action Service, the European Parliament, and the bodies responsible for human rights monitoring. The purpose of this appeal is to urge European partners to:
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strengthen monitoring of electoral processes in Moldova;
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conduct an independent assessment of the cases of violence and pressure against women candidates;
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recommend concrete protective measures and rapid-response mechanisms for those participating in political life;
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assist Moldovan authorities in establishing institutional safeguards ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.
We reaffirm our readiness to cooperate with international and Moldovan civil society organizations to document violations and develop recommendations aimed at improving the safety and legal protection of women in Moldova.
Our organization firmly believes that sustainable democratic development is impossible without the effective participation of women in political processes and without guaranteed respect for their dignity, integrity, and equal rights.