Citizens’ security, border protection, combating new forms of crime and preparing institutions for European integration were among the main issues addressed by Minister of Internal Affairs Daniella Misail-Nichitin during her working visit to France.
Discussions with French officials focused on identifying concrete solutions to strengthen the capacities of Moldovan institutions in areas including civil protection, crisis management, migration, public order and the fight against crime.
During her meeting with France’s Minister Delegate for European Affairs, Benjamin Haddad, Minister Misail-Nichitin discussed the progress of reforms, the modernisation of IT systems, the fight against crime, and the analysis underpinning the development of the Schengen governance programme. She emphasised Moldova’s contribution to the security of the European Union’s eastern flank and the importance of France’s support for the country’s European path.
Particular attention was given to border security. The Minister highlighted the need for integrated approach to border management, taking into account Moldova’s proximity to the Schengen Area and the security risks posed by the war in Ukraine.
Daniella Misail-Nichitin also outlined the challenges facing Moldova as a result of the war, including drones entering our country’s airspace, false bomb alerts and scams aimed at undermining citizens’ trust in state institutions.
In discussions on organised crime, the Minister presented Moldova’s experience in investigating cross-border criminal networks. Joint investigation teams and cooperation with Europol and Eurojust enable institutions from different countries to work together on cases that transcend national borders.
Another topic addressed during the visit was the prevention and combating of drug use and trafficking. In this context, Moldova has adopted a new legislative framework on drugs, psychotropic substances, precursors and new psychoactive substances.
“We are moving forward with the National Strategy on Drugs and Addictions 2026 – 2032, which is based on early warning, prevention, the protection of young people, treatment and rehabilitation, while maintaining a firm focus on combating organised crime. We are establishing the National Early Warning System and strengthening the National Drugs Observatory”, said Minister Misail-Nichitin.
The discussions on migration continued during a meeting with Marie-Pierre Vedrenne, Minister of State for Citizenship at the French Ministry of the Interior, attended by the Director-General of the French National Gendarmerie, General Hubert Bonneau, and Olivier Pezza, representative of the international cooperation and crisis management units.
Minister Misail-Nichitin presented the measures taken by Moldova to prepare for the implementation of the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum, as well as measures aimed at strengthening the institutional capacity of the General Inspectorate for Migration.
The discussions also addressed hybrid threats that may affect security and democratic processes. The minister referred to drones entering national airspace, false alerts, the use of deepfake technologies, the activities of call centres and online scams, which can be exploited to manipulate information and influence democratic processes.
In the context of the forthcoming elections in France, Moldova expressed readiness to share the experience it has gained in addressing hybrid threats and electoral interference.
Direct cooperation between law enforcement agencies will also be strengthened. The General Inspectorate of the Carabinieri and the French National Gendarmerie will cooperate under a joint action plan covering training, exchanges of experience and operational activities in public order and specialised interventions.
The plan will also include cooperation in combating organised crime, including arms and drug trafficking, given Moldova’s proximity to the Schengen Area.
Crisis management and civil protection were another important focus of the visit. During the meeting with Julien Marion, Director-General for Civil Security and Crisis Management, the Minister discussed France’s experience in coordinating institutions when major incidents require the joint intervention of multiple services.
The exchange of experience focused on the collection and analysis of information, resource mobilisation and interinstitutional coordination. Particular emphasis was placed on public communication during crises, countering disinformation and ensuring the rapid dissemination of clear and verified messages to the public.
In the coming period, French experts will contribute to an assessment of the national civil protection system in the Republic of Moldova. The assessment will examine the organisation and operation of the system, investment needs and solutions for developing better-coordinated response capabilities tailored to the needs of the population.
