The relevant bill provides for the introduction in Moldova of anti-SLAPP mechanisms—Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation—that is, measures against strategic lawsuits aimed at restricting participation in public life. These mechanisms are designed to counter the abuse of the legal system to exert pressure on participants in public discourse.
One of the key innovations will be the court’s ability to quickly dismiss clearly unfounded claims even before the case is heard on its merits. This will protect people from having to spend years involved in costly legal proceedings that lack a genuine legal basis.
The bill also provides for the possibility of requiring the plaintiff to post a security deposit to cover anticipated court costs and any damages caused to the defendant.
If abuse is established, the defendant will be able to seek reimbursement of legal costs, as well as compensation for material and moral damages. In addition, the plaintiff may be fined between 20 and 5,000 conditional units.
The new rules are intended to apply to both domestic and cross-border disputes. They aim to bring the legislation of the Republic of Moldova into line with European standards for combating SLAPP lawsuits.
The bill is currently in the public consultation phase. Once adopted, the law is set to take effect on May 1, 2027, with the exception of certain provisions, which are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2028.
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