Training for Moldova’s Security and Intelligence Service promotes gender equality and non-discrimination
Twenty representatives of the Security and Intelligence Service of the Republic of Moldova (15 women and five men) took part in a face-to-face training on ‘Gender equality and the prevention of discrimination in the security and defence sector’, held on 12 June 2025. The training was organised by the European Union-funded EU4GenderEquality Reform Helpdesk project (Phase II).
The training equipped participants with practical knowledge and tools to integrate gender perspectives and non-discrimination within the security sector. They expressed a strong interest in follow-up workshops, peer exchange session and the integration of gender equality topics in internal training curricula for new recruits and leadership staff. According to them, the training was a meaningful step towards building a modern rights-based security sector as part of broader national efforts to enhance human rights protection, strengthen institutional integrity and implement Moldova’s international commitments under the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Agenda.
The training highlighted the importance of integrating a gender perspective within the security and defence sector to address the diverse security concerns of women, men and vulnerable groups – whether related to community safety, border protection or countering violent extremism. It showcased the need for gender-sensitive approaches in policy development, crisis management and peacekeeping operations. Participants deepened their understanding of Moldova’s national legal framework on gender equality, non-discrimination and workplace safety, recent policy reforms and relevant international standards.
A module on gender equality, discrimination and gender-based violence within security sector workplaces highlighted how to recognise different forms of sexual harassment – from inappropriate comments to severe abuses of authority. Trainers explained how an institutional culture that tolerates sexist language or dismisses harassment claims undermines employee well-being and compromises operational efficiency, institutional credibility and national security outcomes. Discussions also focused on the legal and policy framework to end discrimination and harassment in Moldova, including the rights and obligations of employees and management in maintaining a safe, equitable and professional work environment.
The training also analysed the relationship between organisational culture and gender equality, presenting international and regional practices for fostering inclusive, rights-based workplace environments in the security sector. It outlined procedures for documenting and reporting cases of sexual harassment and discrimination, focusing on confidentiality, victim protection and timely institutional responses.
Participants reviewed case studies from both Moldova and neighbouring countries, learning how early intervention and preventive measures can reduce such incidents and improve workplace culture.
The training was part of the EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk project’s support for gender equality and women’s empowerment in the Eastern Neighbourhood region, including in Moldova.
Learn more about the EU’s support for gender equality in the Eastern Neighbourhood region
Factsheet on the EU4Gender Reform Helpdesk Phase II
EU4Gender Equality Helpdesk Phase II project page
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