On 17-18 April, representatives of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) of the Republic of Moldova carried out a Study Visit to Valletta, Malta.

During the Study Visit, the delegation had the opportunity to enter into an exchange with the Executive Director of the European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA), Nina Gregori, get acquainted with the EUAA’s work, and explore possibilities for cooperation, with a view to bringing the national asylum and reception system in line with European standards, also in the broader context of Moldova’s accession to the European Union. The delegation was also familiarised with the operational aspects as well as with the EUAA’s training and professional development support.

Additionally, NIJ representatives had insightful meetings with the representatives of the Judicial Studies Committee, with a focus on procedures in the field of migration and asylum from Criminal and Civil/Constitutional perspectives. Finally, the delegation from NIJ engaged in an open discussion with the representatives of two local non-governmental organisations, Aditus Foundation and Jesuit Refugee Service, members of Malta Refugee Council,  on challenges and good practices in reception and integration of refugees and migrants.

The study visit to Malta was organised within the framework of the Council of Europe Project “Strengthening the human rights protection of refugees and migrants in the Republic of Moldova", funded under the Council of Europe Action Plan for the Republic of Moldova 2021-2024.