Maia Sandu explains why Moldova needs a new law on the state of siege and state of war
The Republic of Moldova needs updated legislation to regulate situations involving a state of war or siege, even as the authorities work to prevent such scenarios, President Maia Sandu says. According to the head of state, the Ministry of Defence's draft law includes provisions found in other countries’ legislation. However, Sandu criticised the Ministry for failing to explain the proposed changes in advance, saying this had fuelled public concern and drawn criticism from political opponents.
The draft law is part of a broader process to update defense-related legislation, the head of state noted during a press conference on November 6.
"Defense laws have recently been updated—if you recall, the previous law was passed in 1992 and was clearly outdated. As part of the effort to modernize the legislative and regulatory framework, the Ministry of Defense has also updated this specific law. It contains standard provisions found in the laws of other countries; there is nothing unusual about it," the President stated.
The existence of emergency rules does not mean the authorities want such situations to occur, the head of state added.
"Naturally, we must have a legal framework in place for serious scenarios. We sincerely hope—and are doing everything in our power—to avoid reaching such a point, but that does not mean we shouldn't have a properly organized legal framework," Maia Sandu said.
The President accused certain politicians of using the draft law to fuel panic among citizens. At the same time, she acknowledged that the Ministry of Defense should have presented and explained the document's provisions sooner to prevent any misinterpretations. "Clearly, ill-intentioned politicians—who do nothing but frighten citizens—have used this opportunity to sow division and fear. On the other hand, I believe the Ministry of Defence should have stepped forward, communicated proactively, and explained matters before they could be misrepresented by opposition representatives," stated Maia Sandu.
Opposition calls for withdrawal of draft law on state of siege and war
The Ministry of Defence has proposed a new law to replace the existing legislation, establishing a legal framework for a state of siege and a state of war. The draft sets out the conditions under which these exceptional regimes may be declared, defines the powers of public authorities, and outlines the measures that could be taken to defend the country.
Provisions that have sparked debate include possible restrictions on freedom of movement, the mobilisation of reservists, and obligations that could apply to Moldovan citizens living abroad.
The draft also regulates the operation of public institutions, critical infrastructure, and the economy during emergencies.
The initiative has drawn criticism from parliamentary opposition representatives. Socialist leader Igor Dodon has called for the draft law to be withdrawn, arguing that it is causing public concern. Vasile Costiuc, leader of the "Democracy at Home" party, has made a similar demand and announced the launch of a petition opposing the document.
Meanwhile, Alexandr Stoianoglo, an MP from the "Alternative bloc", has invoked Moldova’s constitutional status of neutrality and questioned the timing of the initiative.
In response, Prime Minister Vasile Tofan said the state must be prepared for potential crisis situations, rejecting claims that the draft law signals preparations for the country to enter a war.
The draft was published for public consultation on November 3. Citizens and other interested parties can submit proposals and objections until November 17.
