Between 16–19 September, ICMPD organised a study visit to Lithuania for the Moldovan law enforcement community, focusing on Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) systems. A range of experiences and lessons were shared during the visit to support Moldova in establishing a Passenger Information Unit.
As Moldova moves towards EU accession, there is growing pressure to align its laws with the EU Acquis. A key part of this effort is the new law on using Passenger Name Record (PNR) data and the plan to establish a Passenger Information Unit by the end of 2024.
The Passenger Information Unit is envisioned as an inter-agency task force, designed based on leading European practices. Although it will be housed within the Border Police, the unit will include officers from several other law enforcement agencies, such as the Customs Service, National Police, and Information and Security Service. Additionally, the unit will collaborate with various national and international bodies, including Interpol and Europol.
Building on long-standing co-operation with Lithuania, the study visit provided Moldovan officials with valuable insights into the practical implementation of API/PNR systems by the hosts. The Moldovan delegation visited key Lithuanian institutions such as the Border Police, Lithuanian Police, and Vilnius Airport. These visits facilitated an in-depth exchange of experiences, allowing Moldovan representatives to learn about the systems used by Lithuania, as well as the challenges and issues they encountered during implementation.
During the visit, case studies were also discussed to provide practical examples of how PNR/API systems can be effectively integrated into national security frameworks. The Moldovan delegation gained a better understanding of operational strategies and potential pitfalls, all of which are crucial for the establishment of Moldova's Passenger Information Unit. Both parties expressed their commitment to continuing this exchange of knowledge and expertise in the future, ensuring that Moldova’s border management system evolves in line with European standards.
The project “Support to the Complex Improvement of Migration and Border Management in Moldova” (SCOP) aims to help Moldovan authorities with the consolidation of the migration and border management system in line with the EU Acquis. The objective of its Component 3.1, "Strengthening Border Police operational capacities for border security," is to contribute to the Moldovan Border Police’s resilience and capacities, including effective management of the state border and timely and adequate responses to crisis situations. The action is implemented by ICMPD and is funded by the Ministry of the Interior of the Czech Republic.