Annual Report for FY 2012: Rule of Law Institutional Strengthening Program (ROLISP)

The program was implemented by Checchi and Company Consulting, Inc. and was funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The program's objective was to strengthen the capacity of the Supreme Court of Moldova (SCM) and the Department of Justice Administration (DJA). To achieve this objective, ROLISP implemented several activities, including the refinement and development of additional performance indicators for the SCM and DJA. The program also conducted a functional analysis of the SCM and DJA, and prepared a functional analysis report. Furthermore, ROLISP established an implementation team and developed a prioritized action plan to streamline court management and administration processes. The program also focused on strengthening the institutional and operational capacity of the National Institute of Justice (NIJ). Expected Result 2.1 aimed to improve management practices within NIJ, which was achieved through assessing organizational structure and operating procedures, as well as strategic planning. Additionally, ROLISP assessed staffing needs and developed a plan to address any gaps. Another key aspect of the program was the development of guidelines for interpreting the ICMS statistical data. This was achieved through the development of guidelines for building new courthouses and renovating current courthouses, as well as reviewing relevant regulations to ensure proper usage and maintenance of IT systems. The program also assisted the DJA in developing a long-term plan for budgetary resources for the acquisition of IT systems. The program also focused on increasing the capacity of civil society organizations to monitor and advocate for justice sector reforms and improve public legal awareness. This was achieved through the development of educational programs and the provision of equipment to courts. Furthermore, ROLISP organized an oversight committee and developed guidelines for building new courthouses and renovating current courthouses. The program's activities were designed to be implemented over a period of time, with some activities starting in the second quarter and continuing into the third quarter. The program's overall goal was to strengthen the capacity of the Moldovan judiciary and improve the administration of justice in the country.