A network of 22 mediators on both banks of the Nistru River has been established through the EU-UNDP Partnership on insider mediation for conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

In 2025, the mediators have strengthened their skills and acquired advanced mediation and negotiation techniques. They have participated in simulated scenarios and examined how disputes can be constructively resolved through community involvement and the integration of a human rights-based approach.

Among the 22 mediators are also members of sectoral platforms created under the European Union Confidence Building Measures Programme implemented by UNDP. These platforms bring together professionals from both banks of the Nistru River across six sectors: tourism, education, sports, health, environment, and culture.

“The experience has shown that mediation is an effective tool for the amicable resolution of conflicts. Citizens, especially students, are very enthusiastic about the mediation process and the benefits this method offers. The activities have contributed to the development of practical skills and to promoting a culture of dialogue. We are pleased that we can support the community through mediation services and legal education,” said Iulia Bria, lawyer and mediator.

As a result of the insider mediation sessions, the team of the Legal Clinic in Cahul, where Iulia is the founder and project manager, organized two situation simulations and two actual mediation sessions.

“Through mediation, communities can resolve disputes more effectively and without excessive costs, while facilitated dialogue helps build trust and cooperation among people. UNDP supports the development of these skills at the local level and promotes the identification of peaceful and fair solutions,” stated Victoria Muntean, Programme Specialist, UNDP Moldova.

This newly established network will contribute to creating a strong mediation culture in the Republic of Moldova, providing citizens particularly those from vulnerable groups, with effective tools to promote constructive dialogue and strengthen social cohesion in their communities. At the same time, it supports thematic platforms that, through dialogue and engagement, develop solutions to common challenges on both banks of the Nistru River.

UNDP Moldova facilitates dialogue between mediators, authorities, and stakeholders on the importance of mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method. International experiences are promoted, and ways to strengthen mediation mechanisms and practices in Moldova are analyzed.

Additionally, UNDP and Sweden have raised public awareness about state-guaranteed mediation through a campaign explaining how citizens can access these services. As a result, the new legal provisions on state-guaranteed mediation were communicated to the public, helping citizens understand their rights and available options for dispute resolution.

Through a partnership with Switzerland and UNFPA Moldova, UNDP has trained over 220 young people on conflict management through dialogue and mediation. Through cooperation with local NGOs, initiatives to strengthen trust and social cohesion have been implemented in ten localities.