At the initiative of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Government approved an important document that advances Moldova’s European integration efforts - the National Program on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Control for 2026–2030. This program underscores the country’s commitments to meeting the obligations of the European integration process, particularly under Chapter 24 Justice, Freedom, and Security.
Background and recommendations of the European Commission:
As part of the screening process conducted by the European Commission, two new areas for intervention were identified to complement the existing sectoral framework:
1. A sectoral program on the control of small arms and light weapons, aimed at preventing and combating the illicit trafficking of arms and ammunition;
2. A national program on phased integration of foreigners, including displaced persons, in the Republic of Moldova for the period 2025-2027.
The SALW Program on small arms and light weapons control, approved by the Government, strengthens the national response to security risks arising from the proliferation of weapons. Its objectives include consolidating Moldova’s regulatory and operational framework in the field of arms control, aligning national legislation with international standards and the EU acquis, enhancing public safety, and fostering international and regional cooperation.
Most importantly, the program delivers tangible benefits for citizens by ensuring safer living conditions, reducing the risk of incidents involving firearms and strengthening overall protection for the population.
For the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the initiative will bring:
• Enhanced institutional capacity through modern technical equipment, professional training, and digitization;
• Improved internal procedures aligned with EU standards;
• Greater ability to respond rapidly to emergencies and manage security risks effectively;
• Strengthened institutional reputation and increased international recognition of intervention modules.
At national and regional level, the program will contribute to:
• Higher levels of national and regional security through the reduction of illegal weapons proliferation;
• Alignment with EU and UN standards, reaffirming Moldova's strong commitment to European values;
• More efficient access to external funding and international support for strengthening security and justice capacities;
• Consolidation of the rule of law and stronger public trust in state institutions.
The implementation of the SALW Program marks a strategic milestone for the Moldova - a concrete step on the European path that makes state institutions more efficient, transparent, and secure, while ensuring that citizens benefit from modern public services and stronger protection. This initiative shows how cooperation with the European Union, alongside bilateral and sectoral programs and national commitments, translates European integration objectives into tangible benefits for people, institutions, and the country as a whole.
European integration and the significance of this decision
For several years, Moldova has been firmly committed to the European path, striving to become a modern, stable, and prosperous state aligned with the values and standards of the European Union. This strategic direction is more than a political choice; it represents a commitment to economic, social, and institutional development aimed at strengthening democracy, consolidating the rule of law, and safeguarding citizens' fundamental rights.
The European integration process is advancing step by step, through the implementation of comprehensive reforms and the alignment of national legislation with the acquis communautaire.
A defining milestone in this journey was the signing of the Association Agreement with the European Union in 2014, which established a solid legal and economic foundation for bringing Moldova closer to European standards.
In June 2022, Moldova was officially granted candidate status for European Union membership - a recognition of both the progress achieved and the country’s firm commitment to European values and standards. As part of this process, the European Commission recently completed the bilateral screening for Chapter 24 Justice, Freedom, and Security, outlining the priorities and recommendations needed to fully align national legislation and administrative capacities with EU standards.
A central component of this process, Chapter 24 covers key areas such as the rule of law, the fight against corruption, policing, public safety, migration and border management. Advancing in this chapter requires state institutions to build strong administrative capacities, align national legislation with EU standards, and deliver modern and accessible public services to citizens.
European integration brings multiple benefits for Moldova:
1. Strengthening the rule of law - aligning justice and security systems with European standards enhances institutional transparency and builds citizens' trust;
2. Enhancing national and regional security -cooperation in policing, arms control, border management, and emergency response improves overall safety;
3. Economic and social development - access to European funds, investments, and exchanges of best practices support infrastructure modernization, digitization of public services, and job creation;
4. Protection of citizens' rights - adherence to European standards in migration, integration, and social protection promotes inclusion and equity;
5. International recognition and cooperation - active participation in European initiatives and programs strengthens Moldova's international standing and facilitates bilateral exchanges with EU member states.
The decision to pursue European integration represents a strategic commitment by Moldova to build a democratic, stable, and secure country for its citizens.
This commitment was reaffirmed by the 2024 constitutional referendum, in which citizens freely expressed their will to enshrine in the Constitution the irreversible course of the country toward European Union integration.
Within this context, the Ministry of Internal Affairs plays a central role, driving reforms in internal affairs, public security, and emergency management to ensure a coherent and effective European path.