About the project

The Republic of Moldova has faced long-standing challenges in its judicial system, where inconsistencies in the judicial practice have often undermined the legal certainty, equality before the law, and the quality of court decisions. Recognizing these systemic issues,  the Strategy for Ensuring the Independence and Integrity of the Justice Sector 2022-2025 has outlined measures to enable the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ), the highest jurisdiction in the country, to address discrepancies in judicial practice and enhance public trust in the judiciary. In a significant move towards reform, a new law governing the SCJ was enacted on March 30, 2023. This law, subsequently amended in line with the joint opinions of the Venice Commission and the Directorate General of Human Rights and Rule of Law (DG I) of the Council of Europe, introduces critical changes, including the restructuring of the Court and the establishment of  mechanisms aiming to ensure a consistent interpretation and application of the law by the Moldovan courts.

The Council of Europe Project ”Strengthening the institutional capacity of the Supreme Court of Justice of the  Republic of Moldova” is designed to support the implementation of the Supreme Court’s reform and increase the Court’s capacity to deliver justice aligned with European standards by improving the quality and consistency of judicial decisions, and promoting the uniform application of the law. These efforts are designed to 

contribute to a better human rights protection for the whole population in the Republic of Moldova.

This initiative is an integral part of the Council of Europe Action Plan 2021-2024 for the Republic of Moldova, which supports the judicial reforms aiming to increase public trust in the institutions, enhance cooperation between justice and legal stakeholders, and strengthen the capacities of judges and judicial staff. The intervention is also in line with the requirements for accession of the Republic of Moldova to the European Union, as the reform of the judiciary is a key condition for membership.

Project Duration

The project is set to run for 24 months, from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2026.

 What do we aim to achieve?

 Who do we work with?

The project is implemented in cooperation with the Supreme Court of Justice and the Ministry of Justice of the Republic of Moldova.

 Who benefits from the project?

Judges and Staff of the Supreme Court of Justice: They are the immediate beneficiaries, with the project directly focusing on enhancing their professional capacities.

General Public: General population in the Republic of Moldova will benefit from a judicial system that is more predictable and coherent, ensuring a better protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms.