The Republic of Moldova seeks peace through Hague Convention accession
The Republic of Moldova is taking a significant step towards aligning itself with international standards for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Our country is preparing to join the Convention for the Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes, which was signed in The Hague in 1907. This convention is a crucial element of the global legal framework. The draft law is currently under consideration by the deputies.
The Convention will provide the Republic of Moldova with access to international mediation and arbitration mechanisms, particularly in relation to the Transnistrian conflict. Additionally, joining this treaty signals the maturation of Moldovan diplomacy and reinforces the nation’s commitment to neutrality.
With accession to the Convention for the Peaceful Settlement of International Conflicts, Moldova will become a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the oldest institution dedicated to mediating international disputes, said Stela Braniște, Deputy Secretary General at the Ministry of Justice in a show on Teleradio-Moldova.
During parliamentary discussions on the initiative, Braniște explained that this accession will align Moldova with the fundamental principles of international law. She stated, “The fundamental principles, which are also outlined in the UN Charter, mandatorily require states to resolve conflicts peacefully without resorting to armed conflict.”
Although she acknowledged that this step is being taken later than it could have been, she emphasized its importance as a demonstration of Moldova’s political will to align itself with mechanisms that ensure peace and security at both regional and international levels.
Establishing a legal framework for conflict resolution on the left bank of the Nistru
Experts believe that joining the Convention will enhance Moldova’s position in managing the Transnistrian conflict and its relationships with international partners.
“Accession to the Convention enables the Republic of Moldova to engage in international mediation and arbitration. It will also gain access to international expertise, facilitating a process to pacify the eastern region by initiating dialogue with broader population groups on the left bank of the Nistru River. This dialogue aims to identify common ground that would allow for the peaceful reunification of the country”, said expert Mihai Isac.
Isac also noted that this move strengthens Moldova’s neutrality status. He argued that joining the Convention reinforces the country’s commitment to neutrality, stating that, even if it seems delayed, it reflects the maturity of Moldovan diplomacy. He pointed out that previous governments with close ties to Moscow hesitated to pursue such initiatives.
Moldova among Europe's last non-members
The Hague Convention on the Pacific Settlement of International Disputes was adopted on October 18, 1907, revising the original document from 1899. To date, 124 states have signed on, including all European Union member states. Currently, only Moldova and Bosnia and Herzegovina have yet to become parties to this treaty.
The draft states that Moldova will join the Convention with one exception: it will not apply to entities not recognized by our state, such as Kosovo.
