Discussions with Media Representatives on Moldova's Progress in Implementing the European Commission's Recommendations on Fundamental Rights, Freedom of Expression, and Social Policy and Employment

The report's authors gave average scores of 3.3 out of 5 for fundamental rights, 2 for freedom of expression and 3 for social policy and employment. On fundamental rights, the 2023-2027 national programme on violence against women has a budget of MDL 19.8 million for 90 actions, but gender stereotypes limit accountability for aggressors.

Freedom of expression scored lowest: journalists are poorly protected, media ownership is not transparent and breaches of the journalists' code of ethics are frequent. Experts urged authorities to stop intimidating journalists, improve ownership regulation and strengthen the Press Council. On employment, Law no. 302 of 26 October 2023 was a key achievement, but low pay at ANOFM and legislation not aligned with ILO Conventions no. 81 and no. 129 remain constraints.