EU, CEPOL launch EUR 5.5 project to improve the capacities of law enforcement officials in Moldova

The European Union and CEPOL launched today a project to strengthen the operational capacities of Moldovan law enforcement officials and contribute to improving the delivery of public services in the field of security.

The EU4Security Moldova project will address the needs identified in the Moldova’ Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA)’ sectoral programme for education, integrity and digitalisation. The project envisages the provision of funds for equipping the Moldovan Police with cutting-edge technology to upgrade their capabilities in fighting cybercrime and firearms trafficking. EU4Security Moldova will also facilitate training and capacity building for MIA’s personnel.

Financed by the Delegation of the European Union in Moldova and implemented with the support of the MIA, the project will begin shortly following the kick-off event held today in Chisinau, Moldova, and will span over a three-years period.

In her opening words, the EU Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ylva Johansson, said: “EU4Security Moldova is an important project to improve our joint security, to keep our people safe. It will help in the fight against firearms trafficking, which is a growing threat in Moldova, and against cybercrime, a big challenge of today. All in all, this project is an important step in our journey towards a common European future, and towards Moldova’s membership to the European Union.”

Minister of Internal Affairs Adrian Efros pointed out: “EU4Security Moldova is a testament to our shared commitment to building a more secure, resilient and inclusive future. I am confident that our collaborative efforts will lead to a tangible and positive impact on Moldova’s security landscape. The Ministry of Interior stands side by side with our security colleagues in Europe and today’s exchange of views is very important in strengthening cooperation and continuity of future actions.”

At the event, the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, stressed the EU’s commitment in supporting Moldova’s efforts towards its European integration: “We are committed to ensuring that a greater number of officials in Moldova benefit from learning opportunities. It is crucial that we facilitate the strengthening of their skills and that we develop police forces close to and at the service of its citizens, in line with the EU acquis. This project is a sign of the EU’s unwavering commitment to supporting Moldova in realising its EU aspirations, fortifying its security, and enhancing its resilience.”

“With this project we aim to help our counterparts in Moldova stay ahead of crime. CEPOL is ready to step up its efforts in enhancing the capacities of the Ministry’s personnel so that they can better respond, now and in the future, to the volatile security threats affecting the country”, said Alexandru Niculita, Head of International Cooperation at CEPOL.

About CEPOL, the EU Agency for Law Enforcement Training

CEPOL is the EU hub for law enforcement training. It facilitates the prevention and fight against serious and organised crime, terrorism and emerging security threats by facilitating and enhancing cross-border cooperation through vocational training. By implementing international cooperation projects with non-EU countries, CEPOL builds trusted and equal partnerships that contribute to creating a strong European security ecosystem. Visit: https://www.cepol.europa.eu/international-cooperation