Justice

Moldova: Corruption from Kindergarten to Government

Veronica Dragalin, Head of the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (PA), asserts that corruption is a systemic problem plaguing Moldova at all levels, from kindergartens to the highest echelons of power.

Dragalin emphasises that prosecutors and judges shouldn't be singled out as uniquely corrupt; rather, corruption is deeply ingrained in Moldovan society. "I'm sure almost everyone in this country has at some point had to bribe a doctor or someone at a kindergarten to get things done," she states, highlighting the pervasiveness of the issue.

Dragalin acknowledges that prosecutors and judges are not immune to corruption, and the PA prioritises tackling corruption within the system. However, she underscores that this doesn't imply inherent moral failings within the judiciary compared to the general population.

Looking towards positive developments, Dragalin cites the finalisation and prosecution of cases against former presidents, prime ministers, and deputies in recent years. These prosecutions, she argues, demonstrate progress made in combating corruption at the highest levels.

Translation by Iurie Tataru

Carolina Străjescu

Carolina Străjescu

Author

Read more

IMF approves new $1.1 billion installment for Ukraine
International

IMF approves new $1.1 billion installment for Ukraine

The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has approved a new $1.1 billion tranche for Ukraine under its Extended Fund Facility (EFF). IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated that "Russia's war in Ukraine continues to have a devastating social and economic impact on the country. Despite the ongoing invasion, macroeconomic stability is being upheld through effective policymaking by the Ukrainian authorities, as well as significant external support."

Amusement park "Găgăuzia Land" is operating unlawfully, in the face of ongoing criminal investigations. Head of the IGP reacts
Social

Amusement park "Găgăuzia Land" is operating unlawfully, in the face of ongoing criminal investigations. Head of the IGP reacts

The amusement park "Găgăuzia Land," located in the village of Congaz, continues to operate without a permit. Despite this, the park launched its winter holiday festivities on the evening of December 20. The police have concluded two criminal cases related to the park, which have been sent to the court. Viorel Cernăuțeanu, the head of the IGP, stated that only local authorities have the power to halt the park's operations. Meanwhile, the mayor of Congaz said that he is awaiting the court's final decision regarding the matter.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not notified of the presence of Moldovan citizens among the victims of the Magdeburg attack
Social

Ministry of Foreign Affairs was not notified of the presence of Moldovan citizens among the victims of the Magdeburg attack

No Moldovan citizen is currently among the victims of the car attack that occurred on Friday evening at the Christmas Market in the German city of Magdeburg, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Chisinau. The ministry reports that the Moldovan embassy in Berlin is in constant communication with German authorities. As of now, the incident has resulted in at least four deaths and approximately 200 injuries. The identities of all the victims have not yet been disclosed, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event.