The People’s Advocate expresses his concern regarding the intensification of the aggressive and intolerant messages to the representatives of the Moldovan diaspora, but also of hate speeches of Moldovan citizens from abroad, in which the authorities of the Republic of Moldova are targeted.

 The Ombudsman notes that more and more frequently hostile messages are being distributed in the public space to Moldovan citizens who have returned or are planning to return to the country in the context of the new type Coronavirus pandemic. They are considered as guilty of triggering the epidemiological crisis of COVID-19 in Moldova, they are accused of irresponsibility because they had neglected the quarantine rules.

In some cases there is released distorted information about the cause of the local spread of COVID-19, suggesting that people who have recently come from abroad have ignored the epidemiological rules and had parties during the pandemic, thus propagating the infection in their localities.

Mihail Cotorobai does not doubt the possibility of such reasons for the spread of Coronavirus in our country. Moreover, he disapproves of such attitudes, which endangers the public health and safety, considering that they must be penalized in accordance with the legislation in force, as well as the irresponsibility of Moldovans in the country who do not take into account the rules imposed under the conditions of the emergency regime. The People’s Advocate reiterates on this occasion the exhortation to the people recently returned to Moldova to strictly comply with the quarantine requirements, in order not to expose to the risk of infection the relatives, close friends or community members.

Mihail Cotorobai also notes with regret that some Moldovans who are presently abroad also show lack of patience and understanding of the situation in which the authorities of the country operate, sending them offensive and licentious messages. The Ombudsman strongly condemns such speeches and positions, noting that in the fight against the pandemic there is no place for hate messages, discrimination and social exclusion.

The People’s Advocate says that the response to COVID-19 that stigmatizes, excludes and makes certain categories of the population more vulnerable to violence and attacks is inadmissible and incompatible with international human rights standards. Moreover, the rhetoric that arouses fear and diminishes the equality of all people is counterproductive.

Mihail Cotorobai repeatedly calls for solidarity and social responsibility, but also for not admitting the manifestations of discrimination, hatred and intolerance. It is neither the time nor the case to look for enemies or culprits. 

Crises such as the Coronavirus pandemic must unite us, not divide us. The Ombudsman says that this challenge can only be overcome through joint efforts, through actions of human solidarity and mutual help.

COVID-19 is a serious global challenge, but also an opportunity to bring to attention, revitalize the universal principles of human rights. These principles and trust in scientific progress must prevail against the spread of false news, prejudices, discrimination, inequality and violence.

2020 03 31