The first regional integrated service for victims of sexual violence will be piloted in the Republic of Moldova. The Government adopted today a decision in this regard, approving the framework for the activity of this service.

The service will provide comprehensive and timely intervention focused on the needs of victims of sexual violence, with the aim of preventing re-victimisation or re-traumatisation in the process of providing assistance.

The service will be piloted for two years in the Ungheni District Hospital, where victims of sexual violence from six districts will be helped: Ungheni, Falesti, Singerei, Calarasi, Nisporeni and Telenesti. According to statistics provided by law enforcement agencies, during 2017-2022 in these districts 539 sexual crimes were reported, including 241 rapes.

The new social service will allow adult victims of sexual violence to receive medical, legal, psychological and social assistance in one location and will also facilitate the process of acquiring relevant, conclusive and useful evidence in the criminal process, including conducting the hearing of victims in safe conditions.

Specialized assistance services will be provided on the basis of cooperation agreements within the authorities and institutions of the six districts served: the Ungheni District Hospital, territorial police inspectorates, forensic departments, the Prosecutor General’s Office, territorial social assistance structures, territorial offices of the National Council for State Guaranteed Legal Assistance.

Based on the results of the piloting, the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection and the Ministry of Health will decide on the mechanism for the implementation of this type of service at national level.

During the piloting period, the necessary expenses for the functioning of the Integrated Service, which include staff salaries and operational running costs, will be covered by UN Women Moldova.