The Minister of Internal Affairs, Adrian Efros, is participating in the Meeting of the Ministers of Interior within the Southeast European Cooperation Process. The event, titled “Trends and challenges in Regional Security Co-operation in South East Europe and its further promotion in the area of fighting organized crime, with a focus on migrant smuggling and human trafficking”, is being held on April 3 and 4, 2024 in Skopje, North Macedonia.
During the meeting, a ministerial declaration was adopted to enhance security cooperation, identify best practices and security strategies, and employ effective methods to fight organized crime, with particular attention to human trafficking within the current regional context.
Minister Adrian Efros emphasized the meeting’s importance for bolstering regional security, highlighting the solidarity among states in the region and the need to work together to address present challenges. He also mentioned Moldova’s endeavors in combating cross-border crime through the EU Security HUB, which has facilitated enhanced information exchange and cooperation with EU organizations in combating organized crime.
“Considering the three dimensions of the South East Europe 2030 Strategy, I am confident they are all grounded in the vision of Southeast Europe as a peaceful and secure region, where the rule of law and fundamental rights are upheld to the highest standards. Moldova is fully committed to contributing to these objectives”, stated the Minister.
He also spoke about the Government’s initiatives to prevent and combat human trafficking, mentioning the approval of the Programme for Preventing and Combating Trafficking in Human Beings for the years 2024-2028 in October 2023. This program ensures the continuity of the national policy in this area, aligning with European legislation and the international commitments of the Republic of Moldova.
“Human trafficking represents a grave violation of human rights and freedoms; yet, it is also a multifaceted issue which needs to be understood within the context of evolving trends that produce changes in it, as well as the significant factors influencing the phenomenon, including social, political and economic dynamics”, emphasized Adrian Efros.
The event serves as a platform for dialogue among Ministers of Interior and high-level representatives from participating countries in the Southeast European Cooperation Process and other international organizations to discuss ongoing developments in combating organized crime, with a specific focus on migrant smuggling and human trafficking.
