Moldova is a small, landlocked country in Eastern Europe, bordering Romania on the west and Ukraine on all other sides.
HALO began a weapons management programme here in 2024.
Situation in Moldova
The Republic of Moldova is in a strategically significant location. The war in nearby Ukraine makes the country's munitions vulnerable to criminal trafficking across Europe and beyond.
There is a significant stockpile of mostly obsolete Soviet-era munitions in Moldova. The weaponry and ammunition is past its shelf life and is often stored in unsafe conditions.
The threat of unplanned explosions is high in Moldova. Many storage sites are close to civilian and military populations, putting people at risk.
HALO's work and impact in Moldova
HALO and NATO are working together to establish a comprehensive weapons and ammunition management project in Moldova. This includes construction, infrastructure improvements, and training to improve the security of weapons management. This project will reduce the likelihood of unplanned explosions and increase the security of Moldova's weapons and ammunition stockpiles We hope it will also lead to greater security across the wider region.
HALO has been working with governments across Eastern Europe on similar projects to improve weapons safety in the area. We're working to align Moldova's defence practices with EU and international standards. This will support the country's aspirations for EU membership, fostering greater regional stability.