The Council of Europe organised a roundtable event aimed to advance discussions on the implementation of the Law of the Republic of Moldova on whistleblower protection which came into force in October 2023. The event took place in Chisinau, on 6 June 2024, and facilitated discussions among stakeholders involved in implementing the law, contributing to a better understanding of the enforcement mechanisms. The instrument of whistleblowing is relatively new in the Republic of Moldova and the event provided an excellent opportunity to reassess the challenges encountered by the implementing authorities and agree on ways to improve the existing reporting and investigation system.

The event also aimed to deepen the understanding of participating authorities regarding the legislative innovations on whistleblower protection, explore international practices and recommendations, develop implementation mechanisms in regard to the new law (particularly concerning internal, external and public whistleblowing) and promote dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to enhance whistleblower protection and accountability.

Several legislative and institutional mechanisms were proposed to enhance the enforcement of whistleblowing rules:

• Developing instructions for the public and private entities to facilitate compliance with whistleblowing rules;
• Designing Guidelines clarifying the algorithm for reporting, managing and investigating whistleblowing cases/reports;
• Establishing a mechanism to monitor the implementation of the law;
• Promoting communication campaigns and capacity development to raise awareness on whistleblowing rules;
• Clarifying the sanctions regime provided by the law.

This support is provided within the framework of the project “Action against Corruption in the Republic of Moldova (Phase 2)”, funded by the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) of the US Department of State and implemented by the Council of Europe.