- Moldova is a member of the Council of Europe and is regarded as one of the poorest countries in Europe.

- The Norwegian project "Styrkebrønnen" has a team of resource persons in Chişinău, called Norlam. Norlam was established in Moldova in the spring of 2007. The 3rd of May this year marked a 2 year anniversary of the signing of the MOU, which is the basis for our presence. It has been two years with a high activity level and many challenges.

- The team now consists of probation director Willy Giil (Head of Mission), prosecutor Bjorn Larsen, prosecutor Britt Meling, prison director Ellen Solbrække, District Court Judge Ivar Svend Overgaard, attorney Helle Gulseth, national legal consultant Denis Arcus, national consultant Nadejda Buciu and national conultant Inga Burencova.

- There are currently 9,000 inmates in 18 prisons. The number of uniformed staff is approximately 2400.

- The prison authorities are characterized by lack of resources, poor material surroundings and little money. Corruption is a major problem.

- It is therefore very positive that there are forces in Moldova that despite this, are working for human rights and prison reforms.

- The summary from "The Round-Table Meeting" was positive. The participants were interested, excited and enthusiastic in the debates.

- To the reflection of everyone I quote a closing question from a participant in my last post about the Norwegian probation: "What exactly is the difference between being captive or free in Norway?"

Photos from Moldova:

 
Picture No. 1 shows Ellen Solbrække, local Norwegian representative at the entrance to Norlam's offices in Chişinău.

Picture No. 2 shows the COE Expert Audrey Park from the Prison Services of Scotland (standing).

Picture 3 shows the CoE Expert Bart Molenkamp from Holland.

From the Council of Europe "Round-Table Conference" in Moldova 23rd-24th of June 2009

All photos are taken by Director Harald Føsker, KRUS.

FACTS ABOUT NORWAY AND MOLDOVA

(from the CIA World Factbook 2009)