Official opening of the Buiucani Community Police Center

The United States Embassy’s International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Section (INL) in Moldova is proud to continue the partnership with the General Police Inspectorate in opening the first Community Police Center in Chisinau. As a result of this partnership, on October 19, 2017 the first Community Police Center in Chisinau was opened. Ambassador Pettit officiated the event with opening remarks.

This is the first Community Police Center in Chisinau!  The U.S. Embassy, through the partnership and assistance of UNDP, is proud to have sponsored the renovation and re-imagining of this facility.  This proximity to the people and frequent interaction is necessary for building strong trust and is essential to solving community issues. — Ambassador Pettit 

The space has been fully remodeled to include a large and inviting lobby and reception area which will encourage citizens to seek information and participate in sharing concerns with the local or neighborhood police. A public lobby with a children’s play area and accessible public restroom will create a comfortable environment for visitors.

An important innovation was incorporating office space for the local NGO La Strada, which will work on-site on domestic violence issues.  INL is delighted to promote this first-time concept of collaboration in Moldova of a Community Police Center with a local NGO in countering domestic violence and sexual assault.  They will also be available to assist the police in helping victims to get appropriate services, including making safety plans and obtaining access to further resources.  INL commends the General Police Inspectorate and the Ministry of Interior for its willingness to partner with a proven organization that will enhance the quality of service to Moldovan citizens.

Community-based policing is a concept wherein the police force becomes more responsive to the needs of the community it serves and which seeks to improve the overall quality of life in the community that it serves. Bringing the police closer to Moldovan people will help to increase society’s trust in the work of the police and other law enforcement and justice-related institutions, thus contributing to the implementation of the Police Development Strategy (which is Moldova’s official 2016-2020 police reform plan).

The project value is $ 170,000.00, and was implemented through UNDP Moldova.