Decline in ECtHR complaints from Moldova explained by new preventive and compensatory measures
The Republic of Moldova is making considerable progress in implementing the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR). However, it still faces significant challenges, particularly in areas requiring substantial investment, according to Andrei Briceac, the Government Agent of the Republic of Moldova at the ECtHR.
According to official data, in 2024, citizens of the Republic of Moldova filed 363 complaints with the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR), marking a 44% decrease compared to 2023. This represents the lowest number of complaints in the last ten years. Andrei Briceac attributes this decline to improvements in national mechanisms for the protection of human rights.
“One reason for the decrease in citizens’ applications to the European Court is the result of the authorities’ long-term efforts to strengthen the capacities of the courts and national human rights agencies. Recently, several preventive and compensatory remedies have been adopted, allowing citizens to obtain relief at the national level without needing to appeal to the European Court,” said Andrei Briceac during the “Zi de Zi” show on Radio Moldova.
More decisions and cases struck from the docket in 2025
While final data for the current year is not yet available, a clear trend is emerging: the Court is likely to issue more decisions, and many cases may be struck from its docket.
“This year, we are handling very sensitive cases with high risks, and the European Court has decided to strike several of these from the docket, which is, in fact, a favorable resolution for the Government,” Briceac noted.
He emphasized that this reflects the authorities' commitment to "take all necessary measures to protect or remedy individuals' rights in a timely and effective manner."
Each conviction at the ECHR entails costs for the public budget and serves as an alarm regarding systemic vulnerabilities. Therefore, prevention is vital, as emphasized by the government agent.
“It would be beneficial to study and analyze the European Court's jurisprudence regarding other states to understand what practices can be adapted. Moreover, a substantial focus on prevention is necessary during the execution of the European Court's judgments. This synergy between national authorities and the Committee of Ministers is crucial and has significant potential to assist the authorities,” Briceac pointed out.
Lack of financial resources among major challenges
Despite progress, some areas remain lagging due to insufficient financial resources.
“Many systemic issues arise from the lack or inadequacy of financial resources. For instance, compliance with detention conditions is driven by financial constraints. We need to allocate funds for constructing new prisons, equipping them, and ensuring the necessary staffing, including psychologists, doctors, and medical assistance,” explained the government agent.
Chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers: Responsibility and opportunity for the Republic of Moldova
The Republic of Moldova currently holds an important position in its European journey by chairing the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe.
“It is an honor and a testament from the broader European family that the Republic of Moldova, as a small country, is treated as an equal,” Briceac stated on the national radio station.
However, this position also brings added responsibility. “The Republic of Moldova must present itself diligently and professionally, and I can assure you that we are meeting this high responsibility adequately,” he added.
Briceac also mentioned that this status provides significant opportunities to exchange expertise with EU member states. “We are eager to learn from these countries about the challenges they faced and the solutions they implemented during the pre-accession process,” he concluded.
According to data presented at an international conference on the execution of ECHR judgments, the Republic of Moldova has successfully closed 522 of 677 judgments under the Committee of Ministers' supervision, representing approximately 77%. These results indicate that the country is progressing in respect for human rights and in strengthening institutional capacities.
In May 2026, the Republic of Moldova will host the ministerial session of the Committee of Ministers, the Council of Europe's most important annual political event, following our country's presidency of the committee, effective since November this year.
The Republic of Moldova became a member of the Council of Europe on July 13, 1995. It will hold the presidency of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe from November 14, 2025, to May 15, 2026. This will be Moldova's second term in this role, having previously served in 2003.
