A Single National Curriculum for a Coordinated Response - ANPCV Pilots Multidisciplinary Training in Violence Cases

The need to develop a single, standardized curriculum focused on an intersectoral approach to cases of violence against women and domestic violence, including at the intersection between domestic violence (DV) and violence against children (VAC), emerges from the analysis of the training and professional development processes of staff within institutions responsible for the prevention and combating of violence. This analysis was conducted by the National Agency for the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence (ANPCV) during the period 2024–2025..

The curriculum piloting process involved 12 multidisciplinary teams, selected based on geographical criteria (north, centre, south) and territorial criteria (community and district level), from the following localities: Chișinău municipality (Botanica district), Vălcineț village (Călărași district), Bălți municipality, Tărnova commune (Dondușeni district), Taraclia town, Congaz village (Gagauzia ATU), Milești village (Nisporeni district), Nisporeni town, Iargara town (Leova district), Sărata Nouă commune (Leova district), Nou village (Cimișlia district), and Sadaclia village (Basarabeasca district).

The participants tested the curriculum content, assessed the practical applicability of the modules, and formulated recommendations for its adjustment and improvement, with a view to adapting it to on-the-ground realities.

Following the completion of the piloting process, the curriculum will be accredited and will serve as a uniform and common training tool for members of multidisciplinary teams. It will be implemented by the ANPCV National Network of Trainers, which in 2026 will support the implementation of the National Programme for Strengthening the Capacities of Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs).

The curriculum places emphasis on:

• effective and empathetic communication;
• teamwork and clarification of professional roles;
• referral mechanisms and intersectoral cooperation;
• conflict management;
• coordinated interventions centred on victims’ needs.

These competencies are essential for changing attitudes and for strengthening a system capable of responding effectively and sensitively to cases of violence.

At the same time, we note that the National Plan for Strengthening the Capacities of Multidisciplinary Teams (MDTs) has been sent to all relevant line ministries for consultation. The plan includes all modules incorporated into the curriculum, with the deadline for submitting improvement contributions set for 12 January.

This activity is part of the National Programme for Strengthening the Capacities of Multidisciplinary Teams, developed by the National Agency for the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, in partnership with UN Women Moldova and UNICEF, with financial support from the European Union, and with methodological assistance provided by AO AVE Copiii.

We note that the National Programme for Initial and Specialized Training of Professionals in the Field of Prevention and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, 2025–2027, developed by ANPCV, is structured around four strategic implementation areas:

Academic environment

Initial training of students through the mandatory integration of the Unified Module on the Prevention and Combating of Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, in line with the provisions of the Istanbul Convention.

Multidisciplinary teams

Strengthening the capacities of MDTs to ensure a prompt, coordinated and effective response to cases of violence, based on a standardised curriculum.

Justice system

Development of professional competencies of justice sector staff through specialised training programmes, enabling effective, coordinated and victim-sensitive interventions.

Local public authorities

Capacity-building of local public authority (LPA) representatives to localise national policies on the prevention and combating of violence at community level, ensuring effective coordination, implementation and monitoring.

This initiative contributes to strengthening a coherent, coordinated and sustainable national system, focused on prevention, intersectoral collaboration and interventions tailored to the real needs of women, children and families affected by violence.