During a recent visit to Chișinău, a German delegation explored key initiatives of the GS-Foundation. The group was led by Anka Feldhusen, Director for Civilian Crisis Prevention and Stabilization at the German Federal Foreign Office, and Margret Uebber, German Ambassador in Chișinău.
The delegation gained insight into several areas — the EQUALFORCE program promoting gender equality in security institutions, the newly installed scanning electron microscope supporting forensic work, and a next-generation EOD robot designed for high-risk environments. One highlight was a high-level meeting with representatives of the General Police Inspectorate (GPI). Moldova’s leadership expressed deep appreciation for Germany’s support and praised the close cooperation with the GS-Foundation.
As part of the visit, Anka Feldhusen and Margret Uebber toured several project sites in Chișinău. Hosted by the Moldovan National Police, they gained firsthand insight into the Foundation’s work. The focus was on strengthening investigative capacity, modernising infrastructure and fostering cross-border cooperation — all driven by technical innovation, tailored equipment and long-term training efforts.
Empowering Equality – The EQUALFORCE Initiative
Security thrives on inclusion. Gender equality plays a key role in building trust, fostering stability and promoting democratic development. That’s where the project EQUALFORCE comes in that we implement in Moldova and Ukraine. Both countries are pushing reforms to align with European standards. That includes embedding gender perspectives into institutional practice and decision-making processes.
In Moldova, EQUALFORCE builds on earlier successes. The program aims to improve working conditions for women in the security sector, remove systemic barriers and strengthen institutional responses to gender-based violence. One of the activities visited was the Dinamo Stadium, where renovations include the creation of appropriate sanitation facilities for female officers — a concrete step towards gender-sensitive infrastructure.
A central highlight of the visit was a roundtable discussion with female officers from various generations, ranks and departments. The composition of the group allowed for a broad and insightful exchange of perspectives. Participants shared their experiences, challenges and strategies within the police service. The conversation underscored the importance of visibility and support networks for women in security roles. It also highlighted the need to identify and promote role models, as well as to engage influential advocates for gender equality.
Precision and Protection – New Tools for Moldovan Police Work
Technological innovation plays a key role in strengthening law enforcement. In Moldova, two recent additions demonstrate how targeted investments can enhance both investigative precision and operational safety.
The newly installed scanning electron microscope (SEM), officially handed over in April 2025, is now in use by the forensic department of the Moldovan National Police. It enables detailed analysis of microscopic traces and the chemical composition of materials — supporting modern, evidence-based investigations.
In addition, the German cooperation has provided a state-of-the-art EOD robot to support police bomb disposal operations. The system is designed to safely detect and neutralise explosive devices in complex environments. Its presentation during the visit built on intensive training sessions held in February, which included aircraft-based simulations and confined-space deployments.
Strengthening Partnerships Through Practice
The visit of the German delegation underscored the value of long-term partnerships. International cooperation, targeted support and practical tools are at the heart of resilient institutions. From forensic science to gender equality, the GS-Foundation’s work in Moldova shows how thoughtful investments can build stronger, more accountable police services.
