03/07/2026
Serkan felt alone, vulnerable and afraid during his time in detention. For him, being openly LGBTI meant facing constant hostility, humiliation and threats and every single day became a struggle for survival. With no support system and limited access to care, Serkan had to navigate his ordeal in silence.
Sadly, his story is not unique. A recent study reveals that LGBTI persons in Moldovan prisons face systemic risks of discrimination, violence and isolation. Most are afraid to reveal their identity, which makes their suffering invisible and prevents meaningful change. But now, Moldovan authorities, civil society and international partners are coming together to break this silence and work on building a safer, more inclusive justice system.
Read more about the recently published study that calls for concrete action: clear protection procedures, staff training, safe reporting mechanisms, and national policies that respect human dignity and equality.
EU Enlargement & Eastern Neighbourhood EU neighbours east European Union in the Republic of Moldova Council of Europe Office in Chisinau Anti-discrimination and Inclusion at the Council of Europe
Serkan is a young LGBTI person from the Republic of Moldova who was previously detained. In this context he was exposed to situations of vulnerability, stigmatisation and violence within the...