New hearing room for child victims inaugurated at Chisinau Courthouse with U.S. Support
The Chisinau Courthouse has recently opened a special hearing room designed for child victims and witnesses of crimes. This initiative aims to prevent the revictimization of minors and to provide a sensitive, needs-adapted approach to judicial proceedings. The project was accomplished with financial support from the United States Government.
The press release from the institution states that the official opening of a hearing room designed for child victims and witnesses of crimes took place at the Centru headquarters of the Chisinau Court. The room has been equipped in accordance with national and international standards for interviewing minors, with the primary goal of protecting children involved in judicial processes.
The event was attended by representatives from the United States Embassy in the Republic of Moldova, the International Organization for Migration, and members of the judiciary, including the leadership of the Chisinau Court.
The hearing room was constructed as part of a project implemented by the International Organization for Migration, based on the Memorandum of Understanding signed on October 9, 2024. This document outlines the plan for the identification, renovation, and equipping of a specialized space designated for hearing child victims or witnesses of exploitation and abuse.
The new room features furnishings that are suitable for minors, modern audio-video recording equipment, and a welcoming decor designed to minimize emotional stress for children during hearings. The layout adheres to international recommendations for child-friendly justice and aims to create a safe, confidential, and non-intimidating environment.
The Chisinau Court expressed gratitude to "international partners for their support in executing this important project." They emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step toward enhancing the protection of children within the judicial process and improving access to a sensitive form of justice that is tailored to their needs.
