A delegation of 16 representatives from the Republic of Moldova participated at a capacity building study visit to Spain and learned from Spanish practices in preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence. The visit was facilitated by the Council of Europe project "Supporting the implementation of the Istanbul Convention in the Republic of Moldova," and took place on 10-14 June 2024, in Madrid.
The delegation included representatives of multiple agencies: the National Agency on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence, the National Coalition "Life without violence," the General Prosecutor's Office, and the Superior Council of Magistracy. Their meetings and site visits comprised the Ministry of Equality, the Observatory on domestic and gender-based violence, the National Police's family and women Central Unit, and the innovative Cometa Control Centre, which tracks perpetrators of domestic violence.
"This study visit was an invaluable opportunity to learn from Spain's successful approaches to tackling violence against women and domestic violence. We were particularly impressed by their comprehensive institutional framework, specialised units within law enforcement, and the use of technology like the Cometa Control Centre to protect victims”, stated Neli Lelenco, Head of the Public Safety Department, National Inspectorate for Public Safety.
“I appreciate the openness and readiness of the Spanish authorities to share their experience, and the knowledge gained will certainly be reflected in future actions of the NAPCV, thus contributing to strengthening and improving national measures and policies in this field», declared Viorica Țîmbalari, Director General of the National Agency for preventing and combating violence (NAPCV).
The delegation will be able to apply the gained knowledge to strengthen Moldova's national response to combat violence against women and domestic violence. This may involve implementing similar structures within their own institutions, enhancing collaboration with civil society organisations, and potentially exploring future collaborative efforts with Spain on specific issues.
