The DRL-funded Addressing Hate-based Crimes in Moldova Project (AHC), implemented by Millennium Partners, explored the psychological dimensions of hate-based crimes in Moldova. During a highly interactive Train-the-Trainers (ToT) event held in late December 2023, Moldovan human rights defenders, along with representatives of the Ombudsman’s office and the National Legal Aid Council learned about the psychological aspects of hate-crimes. The event left them informed and empowered to actively prevent and combat such offenses, while also strengthening legal protections for victims.
Angelica Frolov, a renowned psychologist, and human rights defender within the LGBTIQ+ community in Moldova led the ToT event. She delved into critical topics such as stereotypes, prejudices, and stigma. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the distinctions between sex and gender, and the significance of “sexual orientation” in the context of hate crimes.
A focal point of the training was the introduction of the “do not harm approach.” Frolov provided insights into the emotional and psychological impact on victims, emphasizing the need for effective communication strategies and the importance of conveying messages empathetically.
Dumitru Darea, a representative of the Ombudsman’s Office highlighted the importance of understanding the psychological aspects of crimes motivated by prejudice. He expressed that such insights are crucial for justice professionals, emphasizing the role of these trainings in promoting equality and non-discrimination.
Constantin Pisarenco, a public defender at the Territorial Office of the National Legal Aid Council, commended the training for its valuable contributions to his professional development. He underscored the significance of learning about the “do no harm” principle and the “trauma-based approach,” emphasizing their applicability to specialists providing assistance to victims of hate crimes.
Training participants acknowledged the pivotal role of fighting prejudices to build an inclusive society. Irina Cojocaru, IRP Project Assistant, emphasized the importance of offering adequate support to victims of hate crimes. The session led by Angelica Frolov not only shed light on the main rules for providing such assistance but also underscored the broader societal impact of combating prejudices.
The AHC’s training session proved instrumental in equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary to contribute actively to the prevention and alleviation of hate-based crime. The ultimate goal is to foster a more inclusive and just society in Moldova. The commitment of both trainers and participants reaffirms the collective dedication to upholding human rights and combating discrimination.