Authorities in Chisinau plan to extend the duration of the Emergency Restriction Order (ERO) for domestic abusers from 10 to 20 days and the Protection Order (PO) for victims of violence from 3 to 6 months. Additionally, harsher penalties, including criminal charges, are being proposed for femicide. These measures are part of a legislative package presented by the Women MPs Platform of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova on the eve of International Women’s Day.
Parliament Vice President Doina Gherman stated in her speech:
“March 8 is not just about chocolates, but about rights. It is not just about tenderness but also about safety. The Women MP’s Platform of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova comes before you, not with a flower bouquet but a package of laws.”
Gherman highlighted three key aspects of the legislative proposal:
- Criminalizing Digital Violence Against Women
The proposed law will introduce penalties for gender-based violence through digital and electronic communication technologies. Victims of digital violence will be able to seek protective measures. Given the rise of online abuse, the bill aims to combat the spread of non-consensual intimate material, dignity violations, and various forms of harassment on social media.
“We will not allow the internet to become a weapon against our women. This law will strengthen protection mechanisms for women and girls,” Gherman stated.
- Extending Protection Measures for Victims
The bill proposes extending the duration of the Protection Order for victims from 3 to 6 months and the Emergency Restriction Order for abusers from 10 to 20 days. These extensions will also apply to cases of sexual and digital violence.
”We believe that extending the duration of protection orders will provide women with greater security. It will give them access to quality protection services and more time to make well-informed decisions,” Gherman added.
- Introducing Criminal Penalties for Femicide
Authorities incorporated the concept of femicide into national legislation last summer. This bill advances its criminalization, classifying femicide as one of the most severe forms of violence against women under Moldovan law.
”Recognizing femicide as a distinct criminal offense ensures the highest level of legal protection for women,” Gherman emphasized.
PAS MP Doina Gherman described the initiatives as a ”firm response to the persistent issues in our society, where women continue to fall victim to violence fueled by hatred, prejudice, and stereotypes.”
Meanwhile, Viorica Timbalari, head of the National Agency for Preventing and Combating Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence (ANPCV), stressed that ”no law, no matter how well-designed, can change reality without the involvement of each of us.” She urged citizens to promote respect and human dignity, intervene promptly to assist victims, and report incidents to the authorities.
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“Violence doesn’t stop at the doorstep—it affects society. Change depends on all of us: from police officers who respond quickly to social workers who provide support, doctors who recognize signs of abuse, mayors who implement protection measures, and educators, prosecutors, and judges who act responsibly.”
Timbalari called for a united effort from government ministries, NGOs, academia, and civil society, emphasizing that prevention must become a national priority.
“Instead of alarming statistics, we need real results—changed mindsets, lives saved, protected women and children growing up in a safe environment, whether at home or school.”
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, celebrates women’s social, political, and economic achievements while raising awareness of ongoing discrimination and violence against women worldwide.