Moldova’s prison system has taken a new step forward. The recently launched rehabilitation programme for prisoners with alcohol addiction is now accessible in every Moldova penitentiary. Supported by the Council of Europe and developed alongside the National Administration of Penitentiaries (NAP), this Moldova Prisoner Rehab initiative aims to tackle substance abuse and risky behaviour among inmates.

Enhancing Rehab Skills in Moldova Penitentiaries

Between February and March 2025, 60 specialists from all Moldovan prisons and the NAP came together in Chișinău. They took part in dedicated training sessions designed to help staff deliver effective support to prisoners affected by alcohol addiction. These sessions, led by Council of Europe consultants, put a strong emphasis on evidence-based methods.

Building Knowledge with Practical Training

During the training, participants strengthened their understanding of individual, group, educational, family, and spiritual therapies. Through practical simulations and case study analysis, the staff learned new ways to tailor care for inmates struggling with alcohol abuse. This hands-on approach means every Moldova penitentiary now has professionals ready to use these rehab techniques on a daily basis.

How the New Moldova Prisoner Rehab Programme Works

Council of Europe consultants and a specialised working group from the NAP developed the programme. They piloted it in four prisons before its full launch. After thoroughly evaluating and validating it as fit for purpose, the NAP approved it for use across the entire Moldova penitentiary system in 2024.

The main goals of the Moldova Prisoner Rehab programme are to:

• Reduce risky behaviours related to substance abuse inside prisons
• Increase awareness of alcohol addiction among prisoners and staff
• Foster communication skills and prosocial behaviour within prison communities
• Encourage mutual support and personal accountability

Moldova Penitentiary System Commits to Better Health and Safety

Approved by the National Administration of Penitentiaries, this programme marks an important milestone for the Moldova penitentiary system. Making structured rehabilitation accessible in every prison supports not just individual recovery, but also improves the overall safety and wellbeing of all inmates and staff.

A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Change

This initiative is part of the wider “Further strengthening the prison and probation systems, the provision of health care and the treatment of patients in closed institutions in the Republic of Moldova” project. It is funded through the Council of Europe Action Plan for Moldova (2025-2028) and carried out by the Council of Europe. By focusing on modern, evidence-based approaches and ongoing specialist training, Moldova is working to make tangible improvements in support services for prisoners with addiction.

Source: Coe.Int