Study visit of the members of the Moldovan Memory Council to Warsaw
Moldova is building a modern approach to its history — and the Mieroszewski Centre is supporting this process.
From 17–21 November 2025, Warsaw hosted a delegation of the Memory Council of the Republic of Moldova, a newly established advisory body responsible for researching and commemorating the experience of totalitarian repression, as well as for developing institutions dedicated to historical heritage. The visit was organised by the Mieroszewski Centre as part of long-term cooperation between Poland and Moldova in the field of history, culture, and memory policy.
Working together on the past
Members of the Council met with representatives of key public institutions, including ministries, research institutes, and historical museums. In discussions, they emphasised that Poland is a natural partner for Moldova — a country that has built its own institutions of memory and modern narratives about the 20th century.
As one of the participants noted:
“The study visit to Poland is a unique opportunity for us to better understand how Poles approach memory. We have seen many institutions whose mission is to preserve history and the memory of occupation. Unfortunately, such institutions are still lacking in Moldova.” – Ludmila Cojocari, Head of the Museum of Victims of Deportations and Political Repressions
The delegation stressed that the experience gained in Poland will be an important argument in discussions with Moldovan authorities about developing a modern memory infrastructure.
“We hope that after returning home, we will be able to share best practices with the government and advocate for adopting similar measures in Moldova.” – Alexandru Postica, President of the Association of Former Deportees and Political Prisoners of Moldova, President of the Memory Council, Member of the Superior Council of Magistracy
Why is memory so crucial for Moldova today?
Delegates underscored that working with historical memory in Moldova is not symbolic — it is a matter of security, democratic resilience, and European integration.
“Historical memory is the foundation of Moldova’s democratic resilience. Our society must know the truth about deportations, repressions, and famine organised by Soviet authorities.”
– Alexandru Postica
They also pointed to the importance of education and building a cohesive identity, especially as Moldova seeks to move closer to the European Union:
“Historical memory helps consolidate our society, build democratic values among the younger generation, and create a bridge between generations. It is part of our effort to become a part of the European culture of memory.”
– Ludmila Cojocari
What does this cooperation bring?
Thanks to its decades of experience in building memory institutions since the 1990s, Poland is a key partner for Moldova. The visit offered an opportunity to:
– exchange expertise and working methods,
– explore different models of heritage management,
– discuss education and research on repression,
– address threats to memory posed by propaganda and disinformation.
“Because of the propaganda and hybrid war waged against Moldova, the fight for memory is crucial today. We must defend it from distortion.”
– Alexandru Postica
The role of the Mieroszewski Centre
The Mieroszewski Centre hosted and facilitated most of the meetings. Its role was to create space for dialogue, connect institutional partners, and support the Memory Council in developing its strategic direction.
The cooperation will continue — both at the institutional and expert level.