Respect for children’s rights, juvenile justice, minor offenders’ prevention of torture, the national preventive mechanism against torture, as well as other human rights related issues, were the main topics discussed during public hearings held by the Parliament’s Standing Committee for human rights and interethnic relations. These issues were raised as part of the discussions on the Annual Report on Human Rights Observance for 2015 of the Ombudsperson’s Office.

The public hearings were organized with the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)’s “Improving the quality of Moldovan democracy through parliamentary and electoral support” project, implemented with the financial support of the Government of Sweden.

The members of the Committee for Human Rights and Interethnic Relations, representatives of the Ombudsperson’s Office, the Government, civil society and international community attended the event.

Mihail Cotorobai, People’s Advocate/Ombudsman, declared that “the number of criminal cases started against minors in 2015 has increased with 24% percent compared to 2014. Children who get in contact with the judiciary are either witnesses, victims, or even those who commit the crime. Each of these categories need specific, consistent and professional support, in line with best relevant international practices and in compliance with the provisions of the most important international documents in the field of child's rights to which Moldova is committed”.

Also, the importance of adequate implementation of regulations regarding inclusion of children with special needs was stressed, as well as the problem of poor quality food in schools and lack of transportation of children to district schools, as a matter of violation of children's rights. During 2015 the number of suicide attempts among minors increased, and this indicates at the need to consolidate parental education efforts and improve communication with children.

Vladimir Turcan, Chair of the Standing Committee for Human Rights and Interethnic Relations, said: “There are many problems that have not only to be discussed, but also have to be heard. We must set clear goals for the Parliament, for the Government and for all those involved in protection of human rights.”

The participants discussed the respect for children’s rights, prevention of torture and other issues related to human rights and non-discrimination, scrutinizing the current state of affairs and formulating recommendations for Parliament’s consideration.

At the same time, a study on compatibility of Moldovan legislation with international human rights was presented earlier with the support of UNDP. The research highlights key provisions of national legislation related to the issues raised by the People’s Advocate/Ombusdman in his annual report.