Strengthening capacities to address workplace discrimination, harassment and gender-based violence in Moldova

On 25 March, a webinar in the Republic of Moldova strengthened institutional capacities to address workplace discrimination, harassment and gender-based violence. Organised by the EU4Gender Equality Helpdesk project, funded by the European Union and implemented by Niras, the online event brought together 78 staff members (63 women and 15 men) from Moldovan public institutions – including the National Anti-Corruption Centre, the General Inspectorate for Migration, and the Customs Service. This wide-ranging participation reflects strong institutional interest in enhancing workplace standards related to equality, safety and professional conduct.

Entitled ‘Preventing and addressing discrimination, harassment and gender-based violence in the workplace: Legal frameworks, institutional procedures and practical implementation’, the webinar promoted safer, more inclusive workplaces across public institutions. It deepened participants’ knowledge and practical skills in applying professional standards grounded in equality, non-discrimination, integrity and respect. In particular, the event enhanced civil servants’ competencies to prevent and combat sexual harassment, bullying and gender-based violence at work. These competencies are essential for efficient and responsible performance of official duties, and for ensuring that management practices uphold gender equality and respect for human rights. The webinar’s interactive format encouraged active participation, enabling participants to share experiences, discuss institutional practices, and reflect on practical solutions that can be applied in their own organisations.

Throughout the sessions, participants explored the legal and policy frameworks that guide institutional responses to workplace discrimination, harassment and violence. Gender-based discrimination at work was one of the webinar’s central topics, with a focus on Moldova’s national, regional and international commitments, in cooperation with the European Union and the United Nations. The discussions emphasised the importance of aligning institutional policies and procedures with these standards and ensuring that employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities.

Another key theme addressed by the webinar was workplace gender-based harassment. Participants examined different forms and typologies of harassment, as well as practical measures for prevention and response. The sessions also highlighted institutional obligations related to Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), emphasising the need for clear reporting mechanisms, accountability and a supportive environment for those affected.

The webinar’s third major topic focused on gender-based violence in the workplace, including forms of violence that may occur in physical and digital environments. Participants discussed technology-facilitated violence and the concept of intersectionality, illustrating how overlapping factors such as gender, position or other characteristics influence experiences at work. This helped participants better understand complex workplace dynamics and identify appropriate responses.

Lidia Guțu, Chief Inspector at the Customs Service’s Customs Training Centre, praised the webinar for supporting public institutions “in strengthening internal procedures, improving reporting mechanisms, and promoting a safe and respectful working environment.” She highlighted the usefulness of “case study-based exercises that helped participants identify and address real situations that may arise in their professional activity.” She especially noted that “the discussion of gender-based violence, including technology-facilitated forms and intersectionality, contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of risks within the institutional environment.”

This webinar is part of the EU4Gender Equality Reform Helpdesk project’s support for gender equality and women’s empowerment across 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

EU4Gender Equality Helpdesk Phase I project page:

Gender Equality Library