Moldova’s Mock Trial strengthened the legal response to CBRN crimes, equipping prosecutors and law enforcement with hands-on training to investigate and prosecute cases effectively.
The EU CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) Centres of Excellence (CoE) Initiative continues its efforts to enhance the skills of professionals combating CBRN threats in Moldova. A key training activity in this initiative, the Mock Trial for CBRN practitioners, provides hands-on experience for law enforcement, prosecutors, investigators, and other stakeholders in prosecuting and adjudicating CBRN-related crimes.
Practical training for real-world challenges
The Mock Trial builds on previous theoretical courses, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in a realistic setting. Bringing together judges, prosecutors, investigators, forensic experts, and law enforcement, the training simulates actual courtroom proceedings, offering real-time feedback and strengthening collaboration between key stakeholders in the criminal justice system.
Participants were divided into two teams; each assigned a criminal case—one involving a chemical crime and the other a radiological/nuclear incident. Teams took turns acting as both prosecution and defence, providing a comprehensive understanding of courtroom dynamics and legal arguments. The training followed Moldova’s national legislation, ensuring its direct applicability to real-world cases.
National alignment and institutional support
Held at the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) of Moldova from 1 to 3 April 2025, the training took advantage of the NIJ’s state-of-the-art facilities. NIJ Director Ramona Strugariu emphasized the institute’s commitment to integrating select courses into Moldova’s national training curriculum, ensuring the long-term sustainability of CBRN prosecution training.
This pilot project, supported by the EU and conducted in collaboration with UNICRI, is part of a broader capacity-building effort titled From the CBRN Crime Scene to Courtroom. Recognized internationally, the program has drawn interest from fourteen countries seeking to enhance their CBRN investigation, prosecution, and adjudication (IPA) capabilities.
Sustainable capacity building
Twenty-eight CBRN practitioners successfully completed a four-part training program, earning certification. The program included a Tabletop Exercise, CBRN Criminalisation Workshop, Building a Case for Prosecution, and the Moot Court session. To ensure long-term impact, a Train-the-Trainer course will be conducted for 8-10 Moldovan instructors, equipping them to deliver future training sessions and integrate CBRN-related courses into the national curriculum.
Advancing global CBRN response
The Mock Trial is a critical component of the EU CBRN CoE Initiative’s broader strategy to enhance international responses to CBRN crimes. By aligning training with national legal frameworks and engaging a diverse range of professionals, the initiative ensures that countries have the necessary expertise and tools to combat CBRN threats effectively. Through continued investment in specialised training and international cooperation, the EU CBRN CoE Initiative remains committed to building a safer and more secure world.
