Newsroom Type: News

During 15–17 May, young leaders from across the Republic of Moldova gathered in Chisinau for the launch of the INSPIRE Academy of Future Leaders, a dynamic initiative aimed at equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle global challenges and contribute to sustainable development in their communities. The Academy features this year three thematic schools taking place in central, eastern, and southern Moldova. The first, held in Chisinau, focused on Strategic Leadership and Sustainable Peace Development.

A highlight of the event was a keynote address by Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM. He spoke about Moldova’s path toward EU integration and the importance of active youth participation in shaping the country’s future.

“When you see the blue EU flag, know that it stands for freedom, for opportunities, for fairness. It stands for the kind of world where young people like you can dream big and move freely. And with the help of missions like EUBAM, the Republic of Moldova is not just waiting to join Europe — it’s already part of this journey. So take that step. Be curious. Be informed. Be proud of the path Moldova is on,” told Slawomir Pichor.

Over the course of several days, participants engage in interactive workshops, case studies, group discussions, and educational excursions aimed at developing leadership skills and practical knowledge. The INSPIRE Network brings together universities and NGOs across Moldova to promote youth empowerment, academic collaboration, and peacebuilding.

EUBAM joined citizens and partners in celebrating Europe Day in the heart of Chișinău, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to regional security and European integration.

Since 2005, EUBAM has worked closely with border and customs authorities in both in the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine to make border crossings more efficient, secure, and in line with EU standards.

Through joint operations, targeted training, and capacity-building activities, the Mission continues to play a key role in combating cross-border crime and smuggling, while supporting its partners in implementing reforms that bring lasting impact to the region.

“Europe Day is a celebration of unity, values, and cooperation,” said Head of EUBAM Slawomir Pichor. “We are proud to stand alongside our partners as we continue working for a safer, more connected region.”

 

Effective border security plays a vital role in safeguarding communities, and this was at the heart of discussions as EUBAM held its first in-person coordination meeting since 2020 with Moldovan and Ukrainian border and customs authorities.

The meeting, held at the Palanca Jointly Operated Border Crossing Point (JoBCP), marked a renewed commitment to enhancing the Common Border Security Assessment Report (CBSAR), a semi-annual tool for monitoring and addressing cross-border threats.

Participants focused on improving the quality, relevance, and sustainability of the CBSAR to ensure it continues to serve as a practical resource for border security analysis and actionable planning. The collaborative discussions highlighted the importance of data-driven decision-making in addressing emerging risks along the Moldova–Ukraine border.

On the eve of Europe Day, a diplomatic lesson titled «Ukraine’s European Integration: A View from Europe» was held at Odesa Lyceum No. 56. The special guest of the event was Lajos Karakas, officer in charge of the EUBAM.

During his meeting with ninth-grade students, Lajos spoke about the history and key principles of the European Union, as well as the work of EUBAM in Ukraine. The session was conducted in an interactive format, allowing students to ask questions and receive comprehensive answers on topics of interest.

Particular attention was given to the issues of Ukraine’s potential EU membership and opportunities for studying at European universities. This keen interest reflects the readiness of the younger generation to actively engage in the process of European integration.

Such meetings not only deepen young people’s knowledge of the European Union but also help foster values shared by the broader European community.

A delegation from the European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Security and Defence (SEDE) visited the Republic of Moldova to review the implementation of the recently signed EU-Moldova Security and Defence Partnership and assess the support provided by EU missions in the country.

On 16 April, the discussion with EUBAM focused on the regional security situation, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine, and on the role of the mission in strengthening border security, facilitating trade, and tackling cross-border crime.

Head of EUBAM, Slawomir Pichor, briefed the Members of the European Parliament on the situational picture at the Moldova-Ukraine border and continued efforts to assist Moldovan and Ukrainian partners in addressing security challenges and maintaining the flow of legitimate trade affected by the war. The conversation also covered EUBAM support to the Transnistrian settlement process, in particular to the trade compliance with the EU regulatory standards and mitigation of threats and financial risks at the administrative line.

The delegation further visited the Palanca-Maiaky-Udobne jointly operated border crossing point, where they met with EUBAM experts and observed the practical aspects of cross-border cooperation.

In addition to Chair Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (Germany), the visiting delegation included Members of the European Parliament Rasa Juknevičienė (Lithuania), Andrey Novakov (Bulgaria), Sven Mikser (Estonia), Pierre Romain Thionnet (France), Reinis Pozņaks (Latvia), and Petras Auštrevičius (Lithuania).

 

 

On 16 April, Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM, met with Alexandru Iacub, Director of the Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova, to explore opportunities to broaden the Mission’s scope, deepen cooperation, and coordinate efforts to address evolving challenges.

The two sides exchanged views on strengthening a coordinated approach to shared objectives through potential joint initiatives under an extended mandate, focusing in particular on integrated border management, trade facilitation, and further aligning Moldova’s customs procedures with EU standards and best practices. Slawomir Pichor reiterated EUBAM’s commitment to supporting the Customs Service’s reform agenda and ensuring continuity in its technical assistance and advisory role.

Among other, discussions zoomed in on advancing customs transit declarations through the New Computerized Transit System (NCTS), a Europe-wide digital tool to enhance goods management and control, but also on prospects for expanding coordinated control at border crossing points to streamline operations.

“EUBAM remains a dedicated partner in strengthening border security and trade facilitation, in line with Moldova’s European integration aspirations,” emphasized Head of EUBAM. The dialogue reaffirmed the close and trusted partnership between EUBAM and the Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova, setting a constructive tone for current and future collaboration.

On 3 April, EUBAM convened a critical meeting in Chisinau, bringing together key security agencies to address vulnerabilities and enhance Moldova’s Administrative Line coordination.

Representatives from the General Police Inspectorate, the General Inspectorate for Migration, and the Customs Service of the Republic of Moldova attended the session, focusing on a comprehensive threat assessment and the necessary steps to bolster inter-agency cooperation. Participants reviewed the progress, key findings, and the following steps to address emerging security risks.

At the end of last year, the Group produced its first comprehensive threat assessment, including the movement of illicit goods, illegal migration, and potential VAT fraud involving undervalued imports. To mitigate the threats, EUBAM partnered with the Moldovan Police Academy and the Romanian Border Police to deliver specialised training for 20 regional police officers. The training sessions included document security, vehicle inspections, and X-ray scanning techniques, contributing to operational capabilities along the AL. The Mission also provided on-the-job training to 120 officers at key locations throughout the year. The mentoring covered cargo and vehicle checks, customs documents checks and inspection of personal belongings.

 

 

EUBAM Head Slawomir Pichor met with Frank Bracco, Country Director for the Tony Blair Institute in Moldova, to discuss potential collaboration on enhancing the Republic of Moldova’s sanctions enforcement capabilities. The meeting underscored both organisations’ shared goal of supporting the country’s efforts to align with international sanctions regimes.

EUBAM briefed Director Bracco and his team on its mandate and activities including a recent seminar on sanctions enforcement and an upcoming joint operation on dual-use goods.

With Moldova prioritising stronger sanctions implementation, both parties identified opportunities for knowledge-sharing initiatives and training programs designed to bolster the capacity of Moldovan authorities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Between 25-27 March, experts from EUBAM and Frontex provided essential support for Moldovan Border Police in enhancing their capabilities in combating smuggling.

Held at the Border Police Sector Brinza in Cahul, the training focused on advancing the skills of 15 officers from the canine units. Over three days, participants received both theoretical and hands-on training in various techniques to improve their effectiveness in detecting hidden objects.

Officers were trained in effective search methods for vehicles, minivans, buses, and trucks, allowing them to strengthen their efforts in combating cross-border crime. It included the operation of portable X-ray scanners and inspection equipment and specialised techniques for using service dogs in smuggling detection.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance Moldova’s border security and align its practices with EU standards.

2024 marked the third year of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, with both Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova facing unprecedented challenges. Despite these hardships, they have made remarkable progress in their EU accession journey, strengthening cross-border cooperation and customs management.

The Mission has continued to support the Ukrainian trade and EU-UA Solidarity Lanes. Our third International Trade Facilitation Forum gathered decision-makers from partner countries and the EU Commission to discuss the transformative nature of the Lanes, which have evolved from an emergency measure into a strategic tool for enhancing EU connectivity and regional cooperation. Significant progress has been made with the establishment of joint control at the Kuchurhan-Novosavitskoye rail border crossing point (BCP) and the Reni-Giurgiulesti BCP at the Moldova- Ukraine border while envisaging coordinated control at the Giurgiulesti-Galati BCP at the Moldova-Romania border will pave the way for further improvements in the region’s cross-border trade.

The war in Ukraine increased pressure on illegal migration, further fuelling organised crime. To help our partners address this challenge, EUBAM organised a series of targeted training sessions on migrant smuggling, document security, and behavioural analysis, among other key areas. With Ukraine introducing criminal liability for goods smuggling, EUBAM strengthened cooperation with the Economic Security Bureau of Ukraine, the agency leading the fight against economic crimes. EUBAM ramped up its support through joint operations to combat customs fraud, enhance information exchange, and detect illicit cash flows – particularly at Chisinau Airport, which the adversary attempted to exploit as a channel for funding illegal activities.

The Mission continued to actively support stronger and more effective border security through a series of capacity-building events, including Train the Trainer programmes to maximise outreach and long-term impact. In total, eighteen training sessions were held, engaging over 530 officers. Equally important to these capacity-building efforts, EUBAM provided essential technical equipment worth nearly EUR 600,000, responding to specific needs identified by partner services to enhance border management further.

“The EU’s and EUBAM’s support remain essential for regional stability through initiatives like the EU-UA Solidarity Lanes and the continued focus on enhancing security and tackling organised crime. As we move forward, we must stand united to overcome the greater challenges ahead,” emphasises Slawomir Pichor, Head of EUBAM.

Read the report here: https://eubam.org/publications/eubam-annual-report-2024/

EUBAM has continued collaborating with the European Commission to enhance the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes, focusing on advancing coordinated control in the Lower Danube transport corridor. The partnership also facilitated a field visit by DG Move representatives to the Republic of Moldova-Romania border.

The visit, led by Alain Baron, Team Leader of TEN-T & Solidarity Lanes, and Policy Officer Ina Miškulin from DG Move, aimed to strengthen the Solidarity Lanes framework by extending joint and coordinated controls between the Republic of Moldova-Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova-Romania. This initiative builds on commitments made during the Quint meeting in January, where all involved parties reaffirmed their dedication to the shared objectives.

EUBAM’s customs expert, Ciprian Rusu, supported site visits to the Giurgiulesti-Galati and Giurgiulesti-Reni border crossings along with the EUBAM field team on 12 March and the Albita-Leuseni border crossing on 13 March. The visit to Giurgiulesti-Galati focused on operationalising coordinated controls and identified additional infrastructure and equipment needs for ongoing improvements.

This was followed by a meeting in Chisinau with the Head of EUBAM, Slawomir Pichor, where progress on EU-funded border projects and the results of optimising border crossings through coordinated control were discussed. The Head of EUBAM highlighted that joint and coordinated controls have proven effective in speeding up crossings, reducing overlapping activities, ensuring better integrity at the border, and supporting trade compliance. Both sides agreed to continue advocating for smoother cross-border connections in the region.

 

On 17 February, Head of EUBAM met with the Valentin Fiodorov, Head of the Moldovan General Inspectorate for Migration (IGM) to discuss critical issues concerning migration management. The meeting focused on the ongoing challenges posed by illegal migration, and the trends shaping migration flows in the region.

This significant meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between IGM and EUBAM to address the evolving migration challenges. Both organizations emphasized the need for a coordinated and comprehensive response to these pressing issues. The discussion also underscored the continued commitment of both parties to working together to implement more effective measures for migration management, ensuring security and stability in the region.

The meeting marked a step in fostering a collaborative approach, laying the foundation for future initiatives aimed at tackling migration challenges in a coordinated and efficient manner.

EUBAM-led Interagency Regional Analytical Group (IRAG) convened for a working meeting at the Palanca – Udobne – Mayaki Jointly Operated Border Crossing Point (JOBCP), gathering key Ukrainian law enforcement and border management agencies, alongside representatives from the EU Advisory Mission Ukraine (EUAM).

Moderated by Flavius Onofrei, Interim Head of the EUBAM Office in Moldova, the meeting finalized the 2024 Summary Report, marking progress in institutionalizing best practices for regional security. Representatives from each participating agency detailed their contributions, underscoring advancements in intelligence-sharing, risk analysis, and joint operations.

Looking ahead, the group established strategic benchmarks for 2025 and reaffirmed its commitment to regional stability through intelligence-led initiatives and interagency collaboration. Aligning its strategic priorities with EU standards, IRAG aims to bolster efforts to counter illicit activities and enhance the security of Ukraine’s borders in the Odesa region.

 

On 30 January the Head of EUBAM participated in a high-level seminar organized by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), focusing on the digital transformation of multimodal data and document exchange in the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine.

The discussions, held within the broader framework of modernizing cross-border trade and transport corridors, highlighted the importance of aligning both countries with EU standards to facilitate more efficient and secure trade flows.

In the seminar, the Head of EUBAM, Slawomir Pichor,  emphasized benefits of digitalizing trade and transport information flows and data sharing required for goods clearance process in improving border management and strengthening regional connectivity and economic integration. EUBAM plays a strong role in assisting the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine in facilitating trade, combating smuggling, and improving border security, all crucial elements in their path toward closer ties with the European Union.

The event, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Moldova, the European Union, the Transport Community and TRACECA (Transport Corridor Europe-Caucasus-Asia), brought together decision-makers and experts from the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine and the EU.