The relevant law was adopted by the Moldovan Parliament in the second reading.
Access, distribution or use of child sexual abuse materials is now punishable by imprisonment from 1 to 6 years. Production or sale of such materials is punishable by 3 to 8 years, and in serious cases – up to 10 years.
Strict sanctions, including a ban on carrying out activities, are also envisaged for legal entities.
Involving a child in prostitution is punishable by 3 to 6 years’ imprisonment. If there are several victims, if they are under 14 years of age or if the consequences are grave, the penalty increases to 10 years. Forcing a child into prostitution is punishable by 8 to 15 years’ imprisonment.
Safety of children – first and foremost
The law also strengthens the protection of victims: immediate access to legal aid, reduction of repeated interrogations to prevent retraumatization, guaranteed confidentiality and expansion of support programs for victims’ families.
PAS Party MP Angela Munteanu-Pojoga explained that the draft is of fundamental importance, as the safety of children cannot be compromised and the state is obliged to protect the most vulnerable citizens.
“The implementation of the project means a confident step of Moldova towards the European standards for the protection of children’s rights,” Angela Munteanu-Pojoga stressed.
It should be noted that the draft was elaborated by the government, was in Parliament since July 2024 and was adopted in final reading only at the last sitting on Thursday, February 5.
