Holds a bachelor's degree in International Law from the State University of Moldova (2001) and a master’s degree in Management and Public Administration from the Academy for Public Administration of the Republic of Moldova (2002). Previously worked for the Moldovan Helsinki Committee (2000-4) where she acquired extensive experience in advocacy and strategic litigation before the European Court of Human Rights, raising awareness for stakeholders on human rights issues and training law professionals. Has written several articles in the Moldovan press on fair trial, arbitrary deprivation of liberty, prohibition of torture and ill-treatment in police custody, as well as Shadow Reports for the UN Committee against Torture, the European Committee for Prevention of Torture, Amnesty International and others. Most recently worked as Legal Director for Stichting Russian Justice Initiative (2005-2006), planning and supervising the submission of written pleadings in over 100 Chechen cases litigated before the European Court by a team of lawyers. Joined INTERIGHTS in January 2007. Particular interests: right to life, prevention of torture, liberty and security, fair trial, privacy and issues of violence against women. Languages: Romanian, Russian, English and French. Email Doina Ioana at dstraisteanu@interights.org