Freedom in Transnistria

Transnistria has been in the middle of Moldova-Russia conflicts for a long time and continues to struggle between the two as both countries refuse to recognise Transnistria as an independent country. However, Transnistria faces other problems within its own administration in regards to political and civil rights. The most recent legislative elections held in 2020 showed a lack of basic competition with a majority of candidates running unopposed while the people’s political freedom is restricted and government transparency is lacking. When releasing their 2021 reports, the Freedom House organization considered Transnistria as a “not free” region with a cumulative score of 20/100 in terms of political rights and civil liberties. Increasing political repression in recent years has caused several political opponents to face legal charges and the government is currently heavily influenced by external forces and suffering corruption. The Russian government continues to hold political influence over Transnistria’s government as their main ally and a financial supporter while they continue to host Russian troops at the borders. The government is also involved in activities of corruption based on favoritism, nepotism, and policy decisions influenced by personal business interests, especially related to Sheriff Enterprises. The judicial system also faces corruption and the European Court of Human Rights has declared that Transnistria courts do not meet minimum standards of fairness.

In terms of civil liberties, Freedom House has concluded that Transnistria does not meet basic criteria of media pluralism, freedom of expression and assembly.

Authorities closely monitor and control the public media, and Sheriff Enterprises dominates private broadcasting, leading to widespread self-censorship. The territory’s few independent print outlets have limited circulation. Freedom of speech faces legal restrictions, especially regarding political topics and criticism of the government and the Russian peacekeeping mission. This greatly impacts the work of activists and NGOs, which are constantly under attack from the authorities. In 2020, the Transnistrian government initiated criminal cases against several political and civic activists. Authorities continuously reject permits to hold protests and participants in unauthorized actions face administrative penalties or criminal prosecution. The trade union system is not functional and independent labor activism is virtually prohibited. The people’s freedom has been and currently is under risk as authorities deny them their human rights.

As we approach our committee session it is important to consider the social consequences of this conflict and the imposed restrictions on the freedom of the people who inhabit this region in order to engage in effective discussions and offer alternatives that help resolve not only the ongoing conflict, but also the issues that people face. We must reflect on the significance of international efforts regarding this situation and the role of the Special Political and Decolonization Committee in the preservation of human rights in these territories.

Best,

Nada Shukarasi
Assistant Director