Flash Mob at USARB: A Generation Saying NO to Violence in the World of Work

The flash mob was part of a broader series of activities dedicated to promoting a safe environment for work and learning, organized in the context of the national campaign #16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. The event also served to remind the public that in March this year, the Republic of Moldova brought into force ILO Convention No. 190 — the first international instrument that protects everyone’s right to a world of work free from violence and harassment.

“Considering that in the coming years we will be entering the labour market, it is essential to know both our rights and our responsibilities. Any workplace should ensure decent working conditions, such as a balanced team, a professional environment where everyone feels comfortable, and appropriate facilities. And, importantly, employees’ rights must be respected,” said student Constantin Mânăscurtă.

Student Andreea Dobic highlighted that “as long as an employee is in a healthy psychological state, their productivity will be higher. It is very important for employees to be able to freely express their opinions and ideas, and when they encounter a problem, to feel safe speaking openly about it. If they are afraid to do so publicly, there must be ways to report issues anonymously.”

In addition to the flash mob, a hands-on workshop was organized in which students and faculty members examined the provisions of Convention No. 190 and discussed real-life situations from the workplace. Using interactive methods — case studies, applied exercises, and world café sessions — participants explored concrete solutions for preventing violence and harassment from both the employee and employer perspectives.

“Today’s students are tomorrow’s workers and leaders. It is essential that they enter the world of work knowing their rights — and knowing that violence and harassment are neither acceptable nor inevitable. ILO Convention No. 190 provides a clear framework for protecting the dignity of every worker, and initiatives like this show how change begins within the academic community,” said Diana Cebotaru, National Project Coordinator, ILO Moldova.

The activities concluded with a meeting between ILO Moldova representatives and the USARB administration, where proposals were discussed to strengthen internal policies on gender equality, violence and harassment prevention, and measures to support work–life balance.

These actions are part of a partnership between the International Labour Organization and USARB, supported by the Government of Switzerland, aimed at developing and strengthening an institutional framework that promotes equal opportunities and a safe, inclusive, and respectful academic environment.