Moldovan experts trained in OSCE/UNODC workshop on virtual assets and cryptocurrencies in Chisinau
Cryptocurrencies and virtual assets are gaining popularity around the world, and Moldova is no exception. The country actively works on tackling criminal use of cryptocurrencies and the Office of the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities (OCEEA) has offered their expertise to assist Moldovan authorities.
OCEEA, in partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), is implementing an extra-budgetary project on innovative policy solutions to mitigate money-laundering risks of virtual assets, funded by the United States, Germany and Poland.
On 24 November 2022, OCEEA conducted a workshop for representatives of relevant agencies in Chisinau, Moldova, to discuss future prospects and best practices in implementation of the project on the national level.
The experts discussed the current situation in the national virtual assets market, the money laundering potential of cryptocurrencies, relevant regulations and legislation, and software tools for investigating illicit transactions conducted in cryptocurrencies. The participants also discussed measures to raise awareness of the money laundering risks of virtual assets and cryptocurrencies among the public.
Recent developments in virtual assets prove the relevance of the project and its activities, especially for the national authorities, lawmakers and other relevant agencies, in particular in Moldova.
“The ability of national authorities to counter the vulnerabilities that virtual assets present for money laundering is crucial, especially as cryptocurrencies become increasingly popular. The OSCE, in partnership with UNODC, will provide beneficiaries of the project with practical training on the money laundering and terrorism financing risks of cryptocurrencies, investigation, seizure and confiscation, regulation, and customer due diligence. We will also be assisting Moldovan law enforcement agencies in organizing awareness-raising activities and facilitating interagency and international co-operation in investigation of crimes conducted with the use of cryptocurrencies,” said Kurban Babayev, associate anti-corruption officer, OCEEA.