Chisinau - On February 17, the Border Police launched, for the first time, the Passenger Information Unit (PIU), a subdivision that will have the task of processing Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) data.

The purpose of the Passenger Information Unit, created within the Border Police of the Republic of Moldova, is essentially to collect, store and process Advanced Passenger Information (API) and Passenger Name Record (PNR) data - which will contain information collected from airlines.

The launch-event was attended by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Daniella Misail - Nichitin, who noted in her welcoming speech: "For people, the PIU means safer borders, better protection and safer travel without compromising fundamental rights and freedoms. This unit will operate in full respect of international standards on the protection of personal data, while keeping the balance between security and freedom".

The support of international partners has been essential for the operationalization of the PIU. In this regard, the Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Republic of Moldova, Ruiz de Azua Ester, stressed the importance of this initiative: "The Passenger Information Unit is a strategic program that marks a new beginning in strengthening the national security of the Republic of Moldova and international cooperation in preventing irregular migration and combating cross-border crime. In supporting this effort in close coordination with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and the General Inspectorate of Border Police, IOM continues its commitment to provide assistance to ensure safe and regular pathways."

The Head of the General Inspectorate of Border Police, Ruslan Galușca emphasized that: "All European countries have already implemented such systems for the security of their borders, and the Republic of Moldova is now taking this necessary step to align with international standards. The experience of other countries has shown that the use of these mechanisms leads to improved border control, faster identification of risks and increased air security. For us, this means better protection of our national borders and real support for Border Police officers, who will have access to relevant information exactly when it is needed", underlined the Head of the Border Police.

Chisinau International Airport is one of the most important border crossing points of the state border, with a constantly increasing passenger flow. This implies the requirement for adequate security measures and a more advanced system of analysis and incident prevention. The PIU will not replace the border control carried out by Border Police officers but will support it by providing information that can indicate possible risks at an early stage. This will allow resources to be allocated more efficiently and corresponding actions to be taken when necessary, without discomfort to compliant travelers.

IOM support for the establishment and operationalization of the PIU was made possible with the financial contribution of the IOM Development Fund and collaboration with the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, as well as national stakeholders.

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For more information, please contact:

Riccardo Severi, Communications and Public Information Officer, IOM Moldova, rseveri@iom.int