The Moldovan parliament enacted a law in 1999 that aimed to protect and promote cultural heritage, including tangible and intangible cultural expressions. The law impacts heritage in several ways and still does, covering issues such as the technical and material support of cultural programs, cultural tourism, cultural education, international cultural relations, and the rights and obligations of cultural organisations. The law also restricts the sale and transfer of buildings, constructions and lands used for cultural purposes, and defines the responsibilities and penalties for violating the provisions of the law.
The law’s main objective is to provide the legal framework for the development and preservation of cultural heritage artefacts, sites, and institutions. It sets out specific responsibilities and obligations for the state, private sector, and individual cultural actors to work together toward this goal. The law states that the state is responsible for ensuring the technical and material resources necessary for cultural development and preservation, as well as for elaborating policies that promote the use of new techniques and technologies in cultural activities.
The law’s impact on heritage is significant, as it promotes the conservation and integration of cultural heritage into diverse social and economic activities. For instance, cultural organisations are encouraged to form external economic relations and conduct activities such as auctions, selling artwork, and other cultural products, while the public has access to reduced rates for cultural services. The law also identifies the consequences and penalties for violating the provisions of the law, ranging from administrative sanctions to criminal liability. The law aligns with the legal frameworks of the EU and the Council of Europe, highlighting Moldova’s commitment to safeguarding its cultural heritage.
The law advances the cultural development of the country by providing a legal framework for the responsible use and promotion of cultural heritage and fostering the growth of the creative industries. It provides a solid basis for planning, implementing, and regulating the preservation and expression of the country’s cultural history, and assures the protection of cultural heritage resources for future generations.
