The meeting, organised by Italy and France within the framework of the European Coalition Against Drugs (ECAD), brought together officials and representatives of international organisations to discuss joint solutions for preventing drug addiction and providing support to those affected.
Moldova aims to draw on the experience of its European partners and develop its own approach to tackling the drug problem. As part of its efforts to adapt European best practice, Moldova has signed a Working Agreement with ECAD. This has enabled the country to strengthen its infrastructure and launch an early-warning system for the rapid identification of new and dangerous synthetic substances.
Key changes and the European approach
During her speech, the Minister of the Interior, Daniela Misail-Nikitin, emphasised that law enforcement measures and the disruption of smuggling routes are not sufficient to overcome the crisis. A comprehensive approach is required, combining strict control over the circulation of illicit substances with strong social support institutions.
Rather than relying solely on criminal prosecution of users, the authorities are considering replacing punishment with treatment and psychological rehabilitation for certain categories of offenders, and reducing the stigma attached to people with addictions.
“To combat drug addiction, we must intervene at an early stage, prevent the spread of drug use and provide those affected with the necessary support to rebuild their lives, by offering access to vocational training, employment and opportunities for reintegration into society,” said Daniela Misail-Nikitin.
The government has already adopted a resolution to this effect and the National Strategy on Combating Drugs and Addiction for 2026–2032. This document marks a shift from fragmented punitive measures to a coordinated European model, where the focus is shifting towards prevention, public health and the protection of human rights.
Instead of departments working in isolation, a single coordination mechanism is being established, bringing together the efforts of the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Social Protection. By 2032, Moldova plans to open four specialised support services for children with addictions, as well as to launch anonymous platforms (such as the ‘STOP-DROG’ app) for pupils to report situations of risk.
This story was translated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.The translation was also reviewed by the Logos Press editorial team.
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