Moldova is taking a crucial step in its justice sector reform with the construction of the country’s first modern prison fully compliant with international human rights standards. The more than €71 million project, financed through a loan from the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) and direct funding from the government, is a significant milestone in the nation’s justice sector reform. 

This facility, designed to accommodate 1,050 detainees, will be built on land owned by the Ministry of Justice and will adhere to European Prison Rules recommendations, ensuring it meets international standards for human rights and prison management.

“We will make a tangible contribution to achieving the government of the Republic of Moldova’s objective of improving the conditions of detention and ensuring new standards of safety, security and discipline in accordance with international standards,” said Veronica Mihailov-Moraru, Minister of Justice of the Republic of Moldova.

UNOPS will assist the project implementation unit at the Ministry of Justice, which is responsible for the new facility’s construction. UNOPS experts will advise and support their government counterparts in procurement, the management of physical work, quality control, and risk management.

“UNOPS is an agency that takes pride in offering practical solutions that help advance its partners on the path of sustainable development,” said Tim Lardner, UNOPS Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia.

“We are happy to support Moldova in creating a modern prison that respects human dignity and aligns with global best practices. This project exemplifies our shared commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions,” he added.

The impact of this project will be transformative for Moldova’s justice system. It will serve as a pilot model for future prison facilities in the country, promoting modern detention standards that respect human rights and rehabilitative practices.