Moldova strengthens its CBRN capabilities amid regional challenges

The ongoing Russian military aggression in Ukraine has undermined the security situation in Eastern Europe,  particularly affecting CBRN security regimes across the region. The Republic of Moldova, as a frontline state, faces profound repercussions of the war on its security landscape, as well as hybrid pressures in several areas. In response to these new challenges, Moldova remains committed to consolidating its national resilience, reforming state institutions, and promoting security and peace by strengthening partnerships and deepening its integration with the European Union.

Engagement with the EU CBRN CoE Initiative

As one of the proactive partner countries in the South East and Eastern Europe (SEEE) region, Moldova plays a significant role among the 63 members of the European Union’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative. In 2017, Moldova launched the development of its National CBRN Risk Mitigation Strategy and Action Plan (NAP), using the methodology of the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). This process included conducting the Needs Assessment Questionnaire (NAQ) and organising a series of NAP workshops. 

Strategic updates to CBRN risk mitigation

In the context of radical changes in the regional security environment, new threats and risks, Moldova undertook the revision and updating of its national security strategic documents. Promoting CBRN objectives was an important part of these efforts.  New measures were taken to complete the National Programme for Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and CBRN risk mitigation, with plans to review the National Action Plan in collaboration with international partners. A pivotal development in this process was the meeting held on 4 April 2024, organised by the SEEE Regional Secretariat with participation from all relevant national stakeholders. Attendees were briefed on the EU Joint Research Centre’s methodology and the NAQ process. 

Leadership of NARNRA and legal alignment with EU and IAEA

In a major political milestone, Moldova obtained EU candidate country status and initiated steps to meet the requirements for membership.  One of the priorities was developing a new CBRN National Programme and Action Plan. The National Agency for the Regulation of Nuclear and Radiological Activities (NARNRA) was designated to lead the development of this updated strategic document, working closely with all ministries and national agencies with relevant responsibilities to prevent the unsafe management of CBRN agents and materials.

It is worth mentioning that NARNRA has been instrumental in aligning Moldova’s legal and regulatory framework with the EU and IAEA standards, including updating national legislation on radiological safety, emergency preparedness, and radioactive waste management. Its leadership in developing the National Programme ensures that nuclear and radiological risks are addressed with technical rigor and regulatory oversight.

A milestone in Moldova’s CBRN Strategy

The Programme has been developed as part of the CBRN national strategy on weapons of mass destruction, taking into account technological developments and international best practices for the effective management of CBRN agents. It builds on a structured approach to risk mitigation for all national policies on health and security, while also fostering cooperation at regional and international levels to better equip law enforcement authorities and national experts to respond to any potential CBRN incidents. The Programme also covers monitoring mechanisms and specific indicators for its implementation. 

In a landmark achievement, the Moldovan Government adopted Decision No. 333 on 5 June 2025, approving the National Programme for Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and CBRN risk mitigation for the period 2025–2029. This decision represents a substantial step forward and reaffirms Moldova’s commitment to cooperation within the framework of the EU CBRN CoE Initiative. This long-awaited milestone, supported by the EU Joint Research Centre and the on-site expert of the SEEE Regional Secretariat, marks a new chapter in Moldova’s pursuit of enhanced national security and preparedness.

It is noteworthy that, following a request from the CBRN National Focal Point of Moldova, the SEEE Regional Secretariat via the On-site Technical Assistance Team coordinated the series of National Team meetings in Moldova which greatly contributed to the successful finalization of the CBRN National Action Plan (NAP). Upon request from the National CBRN Team of Moldova, the SEEE Regional Secretariat stands ready to provide further support in the implementation of the approved CBRN NAP, either through an on-site technical assistance expert or under the respective regional projects.

Exercises and sustainability of CBRN reforms

Having already taken the first steps on its implementation, Moldova is set to host the upcoming regional crisis management field exercise “Border Shield 2025,” scheduled to take place from 1 to 3 October 2025. This exercise aims to enhance preparedness and coordinated response capabilities across the SEEE region in countering CBRN threats. It will be the second field exercise of its kind in the region, following the successful “Lion Shield” exercise in 2018.

Recently, the country completed a pilot national project funded by the EU titled “Strengthening the CBRN Investigation, Prosecution, and Adjudication Capabilities of Moldova.” As part of the project's legacy, selected training courses will be incorporated into the curricula of several national institutions, including the National Institute of Justice, the Police Academy, the Security Service Training Centre, and the CBRN Forensics Centre. Nine specialized courses from the EU CBRN CoE capacity building and training package will be adopted as part of Moldova’s sustainability plan to support successful investigation, prosecution, and adjudication of CBRN-related crimes. 

Moldova continues to be an active participant in regional CBRN projects and activities and an important and credible EU partner in promoting security, stability and peace on the European continent.