National partners active in the field of HIV services in the Republic of Moldova, both in the community and in prisons had the chance to elaborate on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks during a national workshop entitled "Policies and HIV services in prisons of Moldova". The event was organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Moldova project office,in partnership with the Department of Penitentiary Institutions (DPI)/Ministry of Justice.

The main goal of the meeting was to discuss country achievements and constraints related to HIV services in closed settings. In addition, new HIV comprehensive package of services in prisons was presented. During the meeting participants discussed issues related to prison sector HIV/AIDS policies in Moldova, its compliance with the 2011–2015 National Programme on Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS and STIs, including indicators for monitoring and evaluation.

Among participants were representatives of the Ministry of Justice, Health, Ministry of Labour, Social Protection and Family, UN agencies and non-governmental partners. Please see the list of participants and agenda attached.

Despite encountered difficulties, DPI’s achievements were appreciated and discussions were held how to scale up achievements. This workshop facilitated communication between main actors, and this resulted into a series of recommendations and suggested actions to directly contribute to the improvement of HIV services for inmates; reduce HIV transmission ratesand have the greatest impact on HIV prevention, treatment and care services. As a result of the meeting a comprehensive SWOT analysis on HIV services in prisons has been developed.  

UNODC supported this event through its regional project “Strengthening national capacities in Eastern Europe and Central Asia to address HIV/AIDS in vulnerable populations” and will follow up on workshop recommendations with national partners.