The so-called judicial system of the Transnistrian region does not ensure the observance of human rights and the Moldovan constitutional authorities should institute monitoring mechanisms, with the involvement of civil society. It is also important to ensure the human rights defender’ access to the left side of the Nistru. Such recommendations were made in an UN session that centered on the Universal Periodic Review last week.

In a news conference at IPN, “Promo-LEX” jurist Nicoleta Hriplivyi said that in the session a number of states laid emphasis on the existence of systemic problems in the Transnistrian region, while Georgia proposed instituting an efficient mechanism, with the participation of civil society, for monitoring the observance of human rights by the separatist administration.

The jurist noted that the Moldovan delegation pleaded for including the subject of observance of human rights in the 5+2 Transnistrian conflict settlement talks that have focused so far on economic and social problems.

“Promo-LEX” head Ion Manole said that if a victim of the illegalities of the so-called investigation bodies of Transnistria does not have relatives that can defend his interests, this has practically no chance of obtaining justice. In the Transnistrian region, there is no civil society and independent press. In this connection, the Moldovan constitutional authorities and the international organizations are requested to ensure the human rights defender’s access to the region.

“The fact that the Transnistrian administration bans the access of defenders of human rights to the region is a signal that something is being hidden. The persecution and abuses on the part of the investigation bodies continue there,” stated Ion Manole.

The jurists of “Promo-LEX” haven’t had access to the Transnistrian region for over a year and a half. Ion Manole said a society without defenders of human rights is unstable and cannot develop.

“Promo-LEX” manages about 70 cases concerning human rights violations in Transnistria. In about 20 cases of these, the ECHR is to pass judgment. In four cases, the High Court already convicted Moldova and Russia of human rights violations.

Source: IPN