There are many organisations and institutions that work directly or indirectly with human rights.
Some work with human rights in general, while others support particular groups in society and protect specific rights. You may consult with these organisations and institutions to seek help in your individual situation.
Non-governmental organisations
Most organisations working with human rights are private non-profit initiatives. Each usually specializes in protecting specific groups in society and advocating for the rights that are relevant to those groups. They can often help with legal advice and provide practical, social or psychological support to victims of human rights related violations. These organisations are often also involved in raising public awareness, defending rights and advocating policies, providing legal aid or other support, and monitoring and research activities.
State institutions
There are also several state institutions that deal directly or indirectly with human rights in different areas, such as children’s rights, data protection, health, employment etc. These institutions can be consulted for a variety of reasons and may offer consultations or legal aid, as well as examine complaints from individuals. Thus, they may play an important role in the procedure of establishing officially whether your human rights were violated.
Therefore, these state institutions should not be confused with official human rights institutions, that are entitled to establish whether your human rights have been violated and to restore you in your rights or to assist you in the process. In Moldova these human rights institutions include the Ombudsman, who can help you to understand your rights and to assist in restoring your rights, and the Equality Council, who can protect you against discrimination following the examination of your complaint.
About this Guide
This Guide introduces different organisations that operate in Moldova and work with human rights. The Guide explains how these organisations can help you in situations related to possible human rights violations. It will also provide general information about their activities and their contact details.
Please note that new organisations may be added over time.