Context
Moldova started accession negotiations with the European Union (EU) in December 2023, marking the beginning of its journey towards membership. The Government plans to review national laws and begin reforms by 2025, focusing on justice, fundamental rights, and security. However, Moldova faces significant challenges, including limited expertise for these complex reforms and difficulties in coordinating negotiations. It also requires support from other accession countries and EU member states to learn from their experiences. Regional exchange programmes, high-level policy dialogues, and inclusive reform processes are still in early stages of development.
Objective
National actors in Moldova steer and implement a cooperative and inclusive process to align the country’s legislation with EU standards.
Approach
To achieve its objective, the project applies a two-pronged approach:
• Expertise: The project establishes a pool of legal experts to provide advice on improving laws related to justice and governance. It organises training sessions and works with universities and research organisations to give Moldovan decision-makers and specialists from the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Bureau for EU Integration the tools they need to address gaps in their legal system.
• Experience: The project arranges exchanges where Moldovan officials can learn from countries that are more advanced in the process or that have already joined the EU. These exchanges focus on strategic planning, coordination, negotiation techniques. The project also organises discussions with experienced officials to help Moldova enhance its position in negotiations.