Moldova introduces new orders, medals

The state awards system of Moldova will undergo major changes. The MPs today approved, in the first reading, a draft law on state awards. The document was criticized by the opposition.

The draft provides for the establishment of a modernized system of distinctions, based on orders, crosses, medals and honorary titles.

Among the novelties, there is the Order of Freedom, which will be awarded for promoting democracy, human rights, freedom and pluralism, as well as the Academic Merit medal, meant for teachers and researchers for outstanding results in education and science.

Also, the draft law proposes the revision of several current distinctions. The Glory of Labor Order will become the Order of Labor, will have a new artistic design, and will be structured into classes. The Civic Merit medal will receive a new artistic concept and the Military Merit medal will be elevated to the rank of cross.

Changes will also be made to the Order of the Republic, which will have a renewed collar in the spirit of national symbolism and the honorary title People's Artist, which will receive a new visual identity. At the same time, the Order of Honor will change its name to the Order of Honor.

According to the legislative initiative, the distinctions will be awarded once a year, on August 27 – Independence Day of the Republic of Moldova.