Implementation of new Forestry Code and environmental legislation under focus of prosecutors and judges

The environmental legal framework, with a focus on the new Forestry Code, legislation regarding protected natural areas and the hunting fund was the central topic of the second session within the continuous training module for prosecutors and judges. The event was organized by EcoContact, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and the National Institute of Justice (INJ).

The session brought together 17 magistrates from various regions of the country and aimed at the practical application of recent legislative changes in the forestry field. Participants analyzed cases regarding illegal tree logging, unauthorized constructions in protected areas, and poaching incidents, discussing ways to determine environmental damages, according to Government Decision no. 446/2025, as well as legal liability for environmental contraventions and crimes.

The trainers – experts from EcoContact, the Ministry of Environment (Adrian Scutelnic), the Environmental Protection Inspectorate (Ion Caliniuc, Vladimir Rusu, and Victor Dumneanu), and INJ (Alexandru Corețchii) – presented the updated regulations and facilitated interactive discussions on the competencies of institutions and the uniform application of the law.

Furthermore, part of the training was dedicated to the legal regime of hunting and the conservation of the hunting fund, with participants being familiarized with relevant theoretical orientations and practical applications. Magistrates expressed interest in harmonizing judicial practices in environmental cases and strengthening ecological justice mechanisms in the Republic of Moldova, according to EcoContact.

The continuous training program will continue on November 5, 2025, with a session dedicated to the management of water, soil, and underground resources.

The activity takes place within the project “Green Justice for a Protected Environment and Sustainable Communities in the Republic of Moldova,” implemented by AO EcoContact with financial support from Sweden.