European Court of Human Rights to review legality of Moldovan Government’s ban on the SHOR Party

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) has taken a significant step in the legal battle between the SHOR party and the Moldovan Government, as it announced its decision to hear arguments regarding the government’s controversial ban on the SHOR Party.

The Court has summoned Moldova to respond to the challenge brought forth by the SHOR party in relation to the ban. In a statement released on Monday, the Court revealed that after conducting a preliminary examination of the case’s admissibility, it deemed it fit to give notice of the application to the Moldovan Government.

The government has been invited to submit a written statement addressing the facts, admissibility, and merits of the case by July 1st, 2024.

The Court emphasised the potential impact of the application, suggesting that it may raise crucial issues relevant to Moldova and the broader Convention system.

It’s worth noting that the overwhelming majority of applications to the ECHR are dismissed without being examined on the merits, underscoring the significance of the Court’s decision to review this case.

The application to the Court was filed in August on behalf of the SHOR Party of Moldova, asserting that the ban on the party constitutes a violation of fundamental human rights.

Shaul Brazil, a Partner at BCL Solicitors LLP in London, expressed satisfaction with the Court’s acceptance of the case, emphasising confidence in the Court’s impartial review.

Shaul Brazil.

“Our role is to identify, prevent and take action to challenge violations of his rights under the European Convention on Human Rights and other international treaties to which Moldova is a party.

“This instruction requires us to undertake a comprehensive review of the file, which amounts to numerous volumes of material.

“This work is ongoing,” – Shaul Brazil, BCL Solicitors LLP, London.

Similarly, Marina Tauber, former Vice-Chair of the SHOR Party, hailed the Court’s decision as an important milestone in the pursuit of justice, highlighting the importance of fair elections and democratic principles.

Marina Tauber.

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