A Day to Reflect, A Year to Act: Human Rights Forum Inspires Collective Action
© UNHCR/Corina Cernat
In a world often marked by challenges, moments of unity and shared purpose stand out as powerful reminders of what we can achieve together. Human Rights Day serves as a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to protect the rights of every individual. Celebrated globally on December 10, this day sparks conversations about equality and dignity, and the importance of protecting the rights of every individual.
The Forum on Human Rights and Equality, organized by the People’s Advocate Office and the Equality Council, with the support of UN Moldova, the Refugee Coordination Forum, and the Council of Europe, brought together diverse voices to address pressing human rights challenges.
During the two-day forum, UNHCR Moldova participated in panel discussions, delivered information on refugees’ rights, and together with refugees highlighted key initiatives to improve their lives. Discussions focused on strengthening the human rights legal framework, addressing challenges such as digitalization and the protection of vulnerable groups, including children in alternative care, and vulnerable persons in state custody; and aligning national frameworks with European standards. Actionable strategies were emphasized, including improving online safety for vulnerable groups such as refugees, women, LGBTIQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities.
Success stories shared during the Forum highlighted how collaborative efforts and inclusion can lead to meaningful change in the creation of a more equitable society. This was exemplified during the UN Human Rights Awards, which celebrated remarkable contributions to human rights in Moldova, including the achievements of two key UNHCR partners:
The Union for Equity and Health was recognized with the General Award for Outstanding Human Rights Achievement for its critical work in advancing health and rights for marginalized communities. Through its partnership with UNHCR and UNAIDS, the organization has played a vital role in supporting vulnerable populations, including refugees and asylum-seekers, by providing HIV prevention services, psychosocial support, and health education.
The Association for the Empowerment of the Child and the Family, “AVE Copiii,” was honoured with the Special Award for Outstanding Human Rights Achievement in Protection and Promotion of the Rights of Children, Especially Children Belonging to Marginalized Groups. As one of the first NGOs in Moldova dedicated to advancing children’s rights, AVE Copiii has been a trusted partner of UNHCR Moldova for over 20 years. AVE Copiii supports refugee children at risk, providing case management and essential resources like specialized wheelchairs, school supplies, and winter clothing.
These partnerships highlight the power of collective action, a principle reinforced by key leaders’ insights during the Forum’s discussions on advancing human rights.
Ceslav Panico, Moldova’s People’s Advocate, highlighted the responsibility to protect fundamental rights amid global challenges: “We must protect and promote the fundamental rights of every person, addressing the needs and challenges people face in a world marked by conflicts, economic crises, and rapid changes.”
Focusing on children’s rights, Vasile Coroi, People’s Advocate for Children’s Rights, stressed the importance of investing in the next generation: “Children who develop emotional and social skills, value human rights, and think critically are less likely to violate or tolerate rights violations.”
Yesim Oruc, UN Resident Coordinator in Moldova, connected human rights to daily essentials: “Human rights are about people. Human rights are about education and health, decent work and livable wages; they are about clean water and sanitation.” Her remarks underscored the need for human rights to remain at the centre of efforts to build an inclusive and equitable society.
The Forum on Human Rights and Equality was more than a celebration of Human Rights Day—it was a pivotal moment to reflect and act. UNHCR Moldova’s involvement and its collaboration with our dedicated partners exemplify how human rights work translates into meaningful, tangible outcomes. Together, we can ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, enjoys the rights and freedoms they deserve.
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