The authors of the proposal to streamline the citizens’ initiative process argue that the procedures will take longer. In the initial stage, the minimum period for preliminary consultations will be 10 business days for regulatory acts and 15 business days for policy documents. Once the drafts have been developed, the consultation period will increase to at least 15 business days for regulatory acts and 20 business days for policy documents.
Not only are the procedures being lengthened, but there are also multiple channels through which they can be carried out. Public participation will be supported through two digital platforms. Publishing the results of consultations on the particip.gov.md website will become mandatory, and citizens will be able to track the entire consultation process.
The “E-Democracy” platform will be used to promote citizens’ initiatives and directly involve citizens in the decision-making process, according to an official statement.
“With this law, we are introducing a mechanism to rectify violations. Violations of transparency procedures in decision-making can be rectified and challenged by citizens and stakeholders. The State Chancellery will cooperate with all government bodies to ensure full compliance with this law,” said Government Secretary-General Alexei Buzu.
The law will apply to all central and local government bodies, including the parliament, the president, the government, local government bodies, and authorities in autonomous territorial units with special status. The new provisions will take effect on January 1, 2027, and the citizens’ initiative mechanism will begin to be applied on January 1, 2028.
