Ombudsman's Office trained in environmental rights expertise

EcoContact NGO organized seven thematic sessions on May 29-30, aimed at strengthening the capacities of the Ombudsman's Office (OAP) staff in environmental rights protection and promotion. The activities combined theory and practice in interactive sessions.

The more than 20 participants, including Ombudsman, department heads, senior consultants of specialized departments and regional offices in Bălți, Cahul, Comrat, delved into key aspects of national and international frameworks regarding environmental rights, as well as the institutional role of the OAP in investigating and remedying violations.

Topics covered included an introduction to fundamental environmental rights, analysis of Moldovan legislation, integration of a human rights-based approach (HRBA), identification of remedial measures, and strategies for prevention and education in support of environmental defenders.


“For the OAP, strengthening knowledge in environmental rights is not just an investment in team professionalism but also a condition for fully exercising its role as a guarantor of fundamental rights and freedoms. These trainings contribute to the development of a coherent institutional practice that reflects local realities and leads to applicable and sustainable solutions,” Ombudsman Panico Ceslav said.


The project manager of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Moldova, Valentin Roșca, emphasized that supporting national institutions in protecting environmental rights is a priority for UNDP.


“We are pleased to support initiatives that contribute to developing solid and applied expertise in human rights, including the right to a healthy environment. This partnership with the Ombudsman’s Office and civil society reflects our shared commitment to more accessible, fair, and accountable justice for people and nature,” said Roşca.


EcoContact's executive director Iordanca Rodica Iordanov said “the right to a healthy environment is not just a legal matter, it is about everyday life, and it's important to know how to defend it together.”


“These workshops complement the OAP's strong commitment to defending every person's right. We are excited to be with a team that is engaged and open to deepening not only the legal aspects but also the ways in which they can best meet the real needs of people,” mentioned Iordanca Rodica Iordanov.


The events were organized with the support of UNDP and Norwegian Government, in partnership with EcoContact.