The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA), in partnership with the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), organised the Ministry of Internal Affairs – Civil Society Forum, dedicated to strengthening dialogue between public authorities and civil society organisations in the context of Moldova’s accession to the European Union and the implementation of reforms under Chapter 24 Justice, Freedom and Security.
The event was held as part of the Strengthening civil society organisations in the Republic of Moldova to advance reforms in the field of home affairs and European integration through cooperation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (EU-CSOs4MIA) project, funded by the European Union.
The forum was opened by Andrei Cecoltan, Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Cristina Cerevate, State Secretary of the Government, Stephan Dahlgren, Programme Manager at the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Ester Ruiz de Azua Jimenez, Head of the International Organisation for Migration Mission in the Republic of Moldova, and Iulian Groza, Executive Director of IPRE.
The first session focused on the implementation of the Rule of Law Roadmap, a key benchmark in the Moldova’s accession process. Participants reviewed progress under Chapter 24 Justice, Freedom and Security, and discussed how civil society organisations can contribute to monitoring and supporting the implementation of commitments undertaken by Working Group 24.
The panel discussion on Chapter 24 highlighted good practices in cooperation between the Ministry of Internal Affairs and civil society, as well as opportunities to strengthen this partnership as an integral part of Moldova’s European integration process.
The second session explored the role of civil society organisations in advancing home affairs reforms and strengthening public consultation mechanisms. Discussions focused on making better use of existing platforms and identifying practical ways to improve decision-making and ensure more meaningful civil society participation in the drafting of legislation.
At the conclusion of the forum, participants reaffirmed the importance of sustained, transparent and constructive dialogue between public authorities and civil society. They emphasised that effective cooperation is essential to delivering reforms and achieving Moldova’s EU accession objectives.
By organising the Ministry of Internal Affairs – Civil Society Forum, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its partnership with civil society organisations and promoting an inclusive and participatory European integration process based on transparency, accountability and open dialogue.
