Flashmob in memory of Ludmila Vartic: “Every woman deserves safety”
On March 21, dozens of people joined a flashmob held in memory of Ludmila Vartic, a former educator at the “Andrieș” kindergarten in Hâncești and mother of two girls, who died on March 3, 2026, after falling from the 11th floor of an apartment block in Chișinău. Participants gathered to send a clear message in support of women’s rights, stressing that every woman deserves safety, health, and a secure family life. The event served not only as a tribute but also as a call to protect and respect women in society, reminding all that violence and injustice must not be tolerated.
Organizers held the event in response to strong public reactions following Ludmila Vartic’s death. Several human rights organizations raised concerns about possible domestic violence and possible incitement to suicide. Women who have faced similar experiences or know such cases attended, along with people who wanted to learn more about the circumstances and how authorities investigate the case.
“I came for Ludmila because our stories share many similarities. I am a mother of five girls and a victim of domestic violence. I have fought for a long time, yet authorities have not taken action in my case. For at least two years, I have done everything I can. We are urged to report violence, but in reality, nothing happens to bring these cases to a proper conclusion.”
“We made the decision to demand justice and transparency because many questions surround the forensic examination, what happened at the scene, and what led up to the tragedy. I live near that building and pass by every morning, and I keep asking myself many questions because I have seen other cases there. Women in society feel this violence, and I believe most women have experienced physical, emotional, or financial abuse at least once.”
The event remained nonpolitical and encouraged participants to gather without microphones or slogans, preserving a moment of silence and respect in Ludmila Vartic’s memory.
“This situation is not unique. It is widespread, and many more people go through it. Someone asked me earlier why we chose this particular case. I believe we chose it to speak about all such cases,” said organizer Sergiu Badan.
The mayor of Hâncești, Alexandru Botnari, expressed concern during a broadcast, referring to a November incident when Ludmila Vartic was hospitalized and which some suspect authorities covered up.
“Do you really think that when this happened in November and was concealed so no one would find out, the chief doctor received a call from the district’s deputy head, Mr. Vartic? I do not think so. I believe he did not receive a call from Mr. Vartic after that incident. I think someone else made that call,” said Alexandru Botnari, mayor of Hâncești.
Shortly after the case became public, the victim’s husband, Dumitru Vartic, resigned as deputy head of the Hâncești District Council. Authorities also expelled him from the Action and Solidarity Party. Investigators consider him a suspect in the inquiry into his wife’s death. He denies the allegations of abuse and claims that serious health issues and depressive episodes preceded the tragedy.
