During Radonitsa commemorations in Chișinău, authorities detained more than 30 families following incidents of organised begging at city cemeteries, drawing attention to child protection concerns and broader questions around migration policy.
According to the General Directorate for the Protection of Children’s Rights, a significant number of those involved were citizens of Ukraine. In several cases, adults were reportedly accompanied by children or sent minors to ask for money from visitors who had come to honour deceased relatives.
Chișinău cemetery begging raises child protection concerns
Officials said the practice appeared to rely on the assumption that children would attract more sympathy and increase the likelihood of receiving donations.
Police noted that some parents had instructed minors to collect alms at cemeteries during the commemorative period, when attendance is traditionally high.
The situation has raised concerns about the potential exploitation of children, given their vulnerable position and dependence on adults.
Limited response from authorities
Law enforcement agencies reported that they carried out preventive discussions with those involved and informed them about available social assistance programmes.
No administrative or criminal cases have been publicly announced so far, including under legal provisions related to the exploitation of minors for begging.
This has prompted debate over whether existing legislation is being fully enforced in practice, particularly in cases involving vulnerable groups.
Migration and social integration challenges
The incidents have also highlighted broader challenges linked to migration and social integration in Moldova.
Observers note that without effective mechanisms to integrate migrants into the labour market and social systems, some individuals may turn to informal or illicit means of income.
At the same time, the case underscores the importance of ensuring that children are protected in line with both national legislation and international commitments, including the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Wider public reaction
The events have triggered strong reactions among some segments of the public, particularly regarding the visibility of begging in central areas of the capital and the perceived lack of enforcement measures.
Analysts point out that balancing humanitarian considerations with legal enforcement remains a complex task for authorities, especially in the context of ongoing economic pressures and regional instability.
