Moldovan President at General Assembly of Judges

We are on the verge of a historic change. We have a unique opportunity to show that the Republic of Moldova can have a fair, efficient, European judiciary. Let's not miss this opportunity. President Maia Sandu conveyed the message at the General Assembly of Judges today.

In her speech, Maia Sandu emphasized that we are currently at a turning point for the justice system and for society as a whole, marked by the extraordinary external evaluation of judges.


"This stage was more than a technical exercise. It was a test of institutional maturity, an act of courage, proof of the will to break away from a past marked by compromises and toxic influences. I know the evaluation process was complex, often difficult and sometimes painful, but it was absolutely necessary. Today, looking back, we can confidently say that it was worth it. Thus, despite resistance from certain parts of the system, we have managed to pave the way for real change," Maia Sandu said.


The official spoke about the objective of building a system where the law is paramount because "it is not yet entirely cleansed".


"These people bear a great responsibility today. They have the unique chance - and the moral duty - to build a new justice system. A system where the law is paramount. A system in which every citizen, regardless of status, connections, or wealth, is treated with respect and dignity. Today the responsibility to see this cleansing process through to the end lies with the reformed institutions. Because - let's be clear - the system is not yet entirely cleansed. There are still representatives of the old ways, people who continue to put personal interests above the law. Thus, if we do not act firmly, if we do not remain consistent and demanding, we risk coming back to resorting to extraordinary measures," Maia Sandu said.


In this context, the head of state called on justice system employees to consolidate the reforms.


"Those who commit abuses must be sanctioned by the system. We must not let the image of justice become tainted by them. At the same time, I sincerely thank all the honest judges. Those who have resisted threats or isolation. Those who continued to do their job, even when the entire profession was stigmatized due to serious lapses. Your integrity is the foundation on which we can build justice worthy of a modern European state. I imagine the pressure on judges is very high. I encourage you to continue to do your work correctly, honestly, and to report any improper influences. The state has levers and is obliged to react and protect you from any external influences on the justice act," Maia Sandu added.


The president also welcomed the initiative to raise judges' salaries.


"It's important for judges to receive proper remuneration so that this profession is attractive to the best lawyers. In this context, I'm pleased that yesterday a legislative initiative was registered to increase judges' salaries," Maia Sandu said.


The official also referred to the common goal of restoring confidence in justice because a functional, independent, and corruption-free judiciary is indispensable for the country's European path. 


"We cannot allow delays in reforming justice to become the reason we miss a historic opportunity - Moldova's accession to the European Union. The opportunity to ensure a future in peace, freedom, and prosperity for our country. We are on the verge of a historic change. We have a unique chance to show that the Republic of Moldova can have a fair, efficient, European judiciary. Let's not miss this opportunity. Let's not leave the reforms unfinished. Change is possible. But this depends on all of us. We have modern tools at our disposal. We have benefited and continue to benefit from the support of international partners - the European Union, the Council of Europe. We have political will," the president said.


Attending the event was also President of the Constitutional Court (CC) Domnica Manole. She spoke about the challenges in the judicial system.


"We know very well the complexity of this profession, the subtle and direct pressures. I know how hard it is to be a judge today. Therefore, it is our duty to face all challenges to achieve the reform objectives. The Vetting procedure is a test of maturity for our state and a test of character for us. In this complex process, an x-ray of the system is done. The action seeks a clear objective - the independence and honesty of magistrates. It is important for this procedure to be one of clarification but to respect fair principles. The Constitutional Court has mentioned that the principle of judicial independence is an essential condition of the rule of law, and the evaluation of judges must not be used as a means of pressure. Behind the justice reform stands a judge, so the reform must strengthen, not destroy. I appeal to the Superior Council of Magistracy (CSM), you have the huge responsibility of defending the honor of this profession. CC remains a steadfast defender of the balance between powers. Judicial reform must motivate, not humiliate. The future of justice is in our hands. It has the opportunity to be reborn with more solid foundations and through integrity in judges," said Domnica Manole.


CSM president Sergiu Caraman said that last year was full of transformations in the judicial system.

An ordinary meeting of the General Assembly of Judges is held today. The event takes place at the Palace of the Republic in the capital. Two key topics are on the meeting's agenda: the presentation of the Superior Council of Magistracy's activity report on organization and functioning of the judicial system in 2024 and the election of a new member of the CSM.

The General Assembly was convened by the CSM plenum's decision on 11 February 2025.