 Initiate the elimination of remaining symbols of prosecutorial power vis-a-vis private parties, including the requirement for public prosecutors to wear uniforms in the absence of a similar requirement for defence.  Through appropriate regulations, address court practices and conditions that are detrimental to the rights of victims and witnesses, including (i) conditions that cause unsafe contacts between victims or witnesses and defendants, their relatives and supporters; and (ii) inconsiderate and inefficient practices for scheduling and rescheduling court hearings. In particular, insist on abolition of the practice of scheduling numerous cases for the same time and in-bulk hearings at the appellate level. Emphasize courts’ obligations ensure respect for victims’ and witnesses’ safety, dignity, time and expense.  Review current standards and interpretations of judicial and prosecutorial ethics. Make sure the following practices constitute direct grounds for disciplinary action:  manifestations of inequality between parties, in particular between the state prosecution and defence; ex parte communications between judges and prosecutors or defence lawyers;  infringements of the rights of defendants; in particular, prohibit indication of the defendant’s guilt before the pronouncement of verdict, tardiness in the resolution of cases involving individuals held in pre-trial detention, and violations of the right to competent and accurate interpretation. Use of coercion to compel a person to make a statement or admit guilt should be expressly prohibited. Allegations of torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment under the codes of ethics should be promptly examined;  disrespect for victims and witnesses and placing constraints on their rights, including improper summoning and scheduling practices, indifferent treatment within court houses, inadequate explanation of procedural rights, violation of the right not to testify against family, application of pressure during testimony, failure to react to threats against victims or witnesses, unnecessary disclosure of personal information, and use of improper language and inappropriate comments;  lack of diligence and supervision in case handling, including neglecting to inform participants about hearings, disordered scheduling, undue delays and postponements, overly lengthy adjudication, lack of convincing reasons for closing court hearings and other symptoms of disorganisation.  Use assigned authority to boost disciplinary accountability of judges for acts or omissions incompatible with the probity and integrity of judicial office and which, in particular, damage the integrity of court proceedings.  Strengthen the link between rules of professional ethics and mechanisms for selection, promotion and periodic evaluation of judges’ performance. In particular, ensure that quantitative performance indicators for periodic evaluation and promotion are balanced against qualitative criteria such as the efficiency of case processing and professionalism in conduct. Appraisal of court presidents should include the effectiveness of court operations.  Encourage input from Moldovan society, especially from court clients, into the evaluation 84