Peaceful expression of opinion about some subjects and/or events with an impact for the public at large, within demonstrations, is a proof of maturity of a democratic society.
The ombudsperson Mihail Cotorobai urges the government authorities and the representatives of political parties to ensure the freedom of peaceful assembly, excluding any violence and showing respect and tolerance towards any human being, regardless of the criteria distinguishing them or their political views.
A civilized dialogue that excludes violence is an essential feature for the freedom of assembly, an important condition for ensuring free exchange of ideas, opinions, and a guarantee for the observance of democratic principles and the rule of law. The ombudsman calls upon all the participants in the protests organised in front of the Parliament of Moldova to keep them peaceful and not allow them to turn into violent actions, which could threaten public order, body integrity and the life of people, as well as the integrity of properties. The Constitution of Moldova in article 40, the Law on Assemblies, and the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms in article 11 offer protection to only peaceful assemblies.
At the same time, the Ombudsperson Mihail Cotorobai urges the representatives of the police forces to maintain public order and to observestrictly the legal provisions on the conduct of protest actions, as well as the legal provisions on the use of special means.