Moldova Enacts Law Criminalizing Holocaust Denial and Nazi Propaganda

The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, has promulgated a law amending and supplementing select legislative acts. The amendments to the Criminal Code and the Law on Freedom of Expression introduce criminal liability for Holocaust denial, as well as the promotion of xenophobia, racism, and fascism.

The bill was first introduced in the Moldovan Parliament in 2013 on the initiative of the Jewish Community, but was only approved in late April 2021.

“The Euro-Asian Jewish Congress welcomes this decision. This is a righteous path, and we trust that once in force, the legislation will help reduce intolerance and serve as a solid foundation for building a modern democratic society based on principles of respect for ethnic minorities, solidarity, and remembrance of the lessons of the past,” commented EAJC President Dr. Mikhail Mirilashvili.