Comrat strengthens local commitment to refugee inclusion by joining the Cities of Solidarity initiative
Comrat, 8 April 2025 – The Municipality of Comrat is taking a significant step towards building inclusive and resilient communities by joining the Cities of Solidarity initiative — a global effort led by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to support refugee protection and inclusion at the local level. A Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between the Municipality of Comrat and UNHCR in the Republic of Moldova, formalising a shared commitment to work together for the inclusion of displaced persons in the life of the city.
“The people of Comrat have always shown warmth, generosity, and solidarity — welcoming those in need with compassion, regardless of nationality or faith,” said Mayor Serghei Anastasov. “This agreement between the Municipality of Comrat and UNHCR in the Republic of Moldova represents a meaningful step forward in supporting the inclusion of refugees into our local community.”
UNHCR has advanced localisation by deepening engagement with national and community-based organisations, promoting data-driven approaches, and prioritizing responses led by those closest to affected populations. In Moldova, these efforts have significantly expanded participation, with national partners now representing 56% of all Refugee Response Plan actors. In 2024 alone, UNHCR Moldova provided targeted capacity-building support to 40 local civil society organisations, funded 23 Community Support Initiatives across the country, and awarded multiple grants for grassroots projects directly benefiting refugees and host communities. This strategic emphasis on localisation and evidence-based decision-making now forms the foundation upon which Comrat joins the Cities of Solidarity initiative.
“Comrat’s decision highlights the critical role local authorities play in fostering inclusion, mutual understanding, and equal access to opportunities for both refugees and host communities.,” said Anne-Marie Deutschlander, UNHCR Moldova Representative. “Through Cities of Solidarity, municipalities like Comrat are empowered to create practical solutions in partnership with communities and civil society, directly supporting Moldova’s national development goals.”
“Austria is proud to support the Republic of Moldova and its communities in building inclusive systems that respond to the needs of both refugees and their hosts,” said H.E. Stella Avallone, Ambassador of the Republic of Austria to the Republic of Moldova. “It is inspiring to see how local actors can lead meaningful change with compassion and resolve.”
The signing of the Memorandum of Cooperation builds upon ongoing local efforts supported by UNHCR and partner organisations such as ACTED, Laolalta, and AO AVE Copiii, who have been actively promoting refugee inclusion, community infrastructure development, and social cohesion in Comrat. These efforts have been made possible in part thanks to support from the Government of Austria, through the Foreign Disaster Relief Fund and Austrian Development Agency.
Comrat now formally joins Chișinău, Căușeni, Ungheni, and Otaci as part of the Cities of Solidarity initiative, which empowers municipalities and civil society to lead inclusive, locally driven responses for refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, and host communities, while aligning efforts with national development priorities.
By reinforcing inclusive governance at the local level, the initiative ensures that no one—and nowhere—is left behind, strengthening Moldova’s comprehensive response to displacement.
For more information, please contact:
Monica Vazquez
+373 609 44 339
Spain supports winter assistance for refugees in Moldova
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the generous contribution of EUR 850,000 from the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) to support the protection of refugees from Ukraine in the Republic of Moldova. This contribution underscores Spain’s steadfast commitment to supporting displaced populations and promoting resilience during the harsh winter months.
With this funding, among contributions from other donors, UNHCR is supporting over 20,000 refugees from Ukraine in Moldova as part of the Refugee Coordination Forum’s winterisation activities from November 2024 to March 2025. These efforts include providing cash assistance to some 15,500 vulnerable refugee households to cover their most basic needs such as heating, utilities, and food.
To address the increased demand for information, the Refugee Response Helpline (Greenline) will ensure that approximately 20,000 refugees are informed about available services. Infrastructure upgrades in 30 community spaces and refugee accommodation centres will improve energy efficiency and ensure continuous operation during the cold season, fostering resilience in partnership with local public authorities.
Additionally, UNHCR will distribute winter-specific items, including high-thermal blankets, bed linen, and kitchen sets, to more than 6,000 vulnerable refugees and members of the host community, helping them endure the harsh winter months.
Spain has consistently demonstrated its dedication to humanitarian causes globally, including within Moldova, where it has played a crucial role in addressing the needs of refugees and their hosts. This partnership has been pivotal in ensuring that no one is left behind during these challenging times.
Since the escalation of the full-scale war in Ukraine in February 2022, Moldova has welcomed more than 1.9 million refugees. Co-leading the humanitarian response alongside the Government of Moldova, UNHCR has been able to continue providing life-saving assistance, protection services, and long-term solutions to refugees thanks to the instrumental contribution of Spain, reinforcing shared values of dignity and inclusion.
Note to Editors:
UNHCR has supported Moldova’s refugee response since establishing a presence in 1997. The agency expanded operations significantly in February 2022 to address the influx of refugees from Ukraine, co-leading the interagency humanitarian response alongside the Moldovan government under the Regional Response Plan for the Ukraine Situation.
Key figures about the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova
Since February 2022, with the support of Spain and other donors, UNHCR has achieved significant milestones in Moldova:
- Cash Assistance: Over 136,000 refugees have received cash support, totalling approximately EUR 170 million.
- Protection Services: More than 183,000 individuals have benefitted from legal and protection services.
- Training for Responders: Around 4,500 frontline responders have been trained in core protection principles.
- Community Centres: Ten community centres supported by UNHCR provide safe spaces for refugees and Moldovans, fostering engagement and empowerment.
These efforts are implemented in close collaboration with the Government of Moldova, UN agencies, international and national partners, and with invaluable contributions from refugees themselves.
UNHCR remains committed to advancing shared objectives of inclusion, resilience, and community cohesion in Moldova, ensuring refugees and host communities alike are supported.
For media inquiries:
In the Republic of Moldova:
Monica Vazquez vazquezm@unhcr.org
UNHCR and IOM support the community of Comrat through the renovation of kindergarten no. 9 and activities for children
27 November 2024 – Kindergarten No. 9 in Comrat now benefits from improved conditions, thanks to renovation works completed under a partnership between the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Republic of Moldova. The improvements to the space included upgrades to the roof, joinery, thermal insulation of the building’s external walls & attic, replacement of 29 internal & external doors and heating system. This renovation marks an important step in supporting access to education, improving energy efficiency, strengthening social cohesion, employment for their caregivers, and building a safer future for all children, regardless of their background.
“We are delighted to see organizations like UNHCR and IOM showing interest in supporting regions. We are confident that our kindergarten no. 9 from Comrat, now meets European standards. Children represent the future of our country, and investing in their well-being is a direct investment in our shared future.” declared the Mayor of Municipality Comrat, Serghei Anastasov.
“Children and the local community will now benefit from improved access to education in an enhanced environment, significantly reducing energy costs for the Municipality of Comrat. This represents a step forward in supporting Moldovan citizens and migrants, and the successful cooperation with the Moldovan authorities, made possible by the trust and support of our donors” stated IOM Moldova’s Chief of Mission, Ester Ruiz de Azua.
“This is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together. My gratitude to the unwavering dedication of my UN colleagues, our NGO partners, the local authorities, and the generosity of our donors. Together, we continue to shape a future where every child can thrive” expressed UNHCR’s Representative in the Republic of Moldova, Anne-Marie Deutschlander.
As part of the handover event UNHCR and IOM, together with the Municipality of Comrat, parents, children, and teachers, participated in the “Flower Power” activity, a gardening workshop. The activity fostered environmental responsibility and strengthened the bond between the local community and refugee families, highlighting the spirit of solidarity.
The kindergarten renovations, part of Moldova’s Refugee Coordination Forum’s 2023-2024 winter plan, will enhance the learning environment for the 250 enrolled children, including Ukrainian refugees. This effort made possible by the generosity of the U.S. government and the American people, the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO), and other donors, will provide a warm and safe space for these children.
European Union support enabled UNHCR to deliver critical assistance to Ukrainian refugees and Moldova’s most vulnerable
Chișinău, Moldova – 31 March 2025 – Between July 2023 and March 2025, the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), reached over 78,000 people—including refugees from Ukraine and vulnerable Moldovans—with critical assistance to meet their basic needs, enhance protection, and promote long-term inclusion in national systems. This multi-sectoral humanitarian response was funded by a generous EUR 15 million allocation from the European Union Humanitarian Aid Operations.
With this contribution, UNHCR provided cash assistance to the most vulnerable refugee households, enabling them to cover essential expenses such as food, rent, and while also generating a positive impact on the local economy.
This action also reinforced protection services across Moldova. UNHCR expanded its network of protection desks, offering individual case support, information services, and referrals to specialized assistance. Protection monitoring was conducted regularly throughout 2024, enabling a data-informed response to the evolving refugee needs, identifying rights concerns, and ensuring timely interventions for those most at risk.
Beyond direct assistance, this humanitarian aid action invested in building Moldova’s capacity to sustainably include refugees in public systems. With support from the European Union, UNHCR worked closely with national and local authorities to strengthen access to education, social protection, employment, and health services for refugees. The humanitarian aid action helped bridge service gaps, support policy reforms, and foster area-based strategies tailored to local integration needs. As a result, Moldova is better prepared to shift from temporary protection models to long-term solutions, with action plans and systems now in place to support inclusive governance.
“The European Union remains committed to supporting both refugees and the Moldovan communities that have welcomed them. Through our partnership with UNHCR, we are ensuring that the most vulnerable receive the assistance they need—whether it’s financial support, protection services, or access to essential public systems,” said Marianna Franco, Head of the European Union Humanitarian Aid in Ukraine and Moldova.
To prepare for and mitigate the impact of the winter season, UNHCR, with support from the European Union and other donors distributed essential non-food items (NFIs)—such as blankets, heaters, and winter clothing—to 4,000 refugees and vulnerable Moldovans between November 2024 and March 2025. This winterization effort complemented national programs and supported households most affected by the cold. Additionally, UNHCR transferred contingency stocks of essential items to government facilities, enhancing Moldova’s emergency preparedness for future crises.
UNHCR is deeply grateful to the European Union for its generous support, which has been instrumental in enabling UNHCR’s operations in Moldova. This partnership has made a tangible difference in the lives of refugees and vulnerable communities, helping to meet urgent needs and foster long-term resilience.
To learn more about the impact of this multi-sectoral humanitarian intervention, explore personal stories from refugees whose UNHCR support had an impact on their lives.
Life goes on: A mother’s story of finding safety in Moldova and move forward
The little things that keep people going: Larysa’s story
A first step toward safety: monitoring at Moldova’s borders
The European Union increases support to UNHCR for vulnerable Ukrainian refugees facing harsh winter conditions in Moldova
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes an additional contribution of €1.3 million from the European Union Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations. This funding will provide critical assistance to vulnerable refugees from Ukraine and host communities in Moldova struggling to meet their essential needs during the harsh winter months.
Chisinau. With the vital support of the European Union, UNHCR continues to provide comprehensive assistance to the most vulnerable refugees from Ukraine and at-risk Moldovans. This assistance ensures they can meet their basic needs—particularly during the challenging winter months—with dignity, while also contributing to the local economy.
Key supported activities include targeted cash assistance for refugees to address urgent winter-related needs, such as purchasing warm clothing, heating fuel, or paying for utilities, and the transfer of essential non-food items like blankets, thermal clothing, and heaters to refugees and vulnerable Moldovans to mitigate the harsh effects of winter. These efforts align with government assistance programmes for vulnerable populations and include the handover of contingency stocks of non-food items, such as tents and emergency supplies, to Moldovan authorities, strengthening the country’s emergency preparedness. By ensuring families have the resources to stay warm and safe during winter, these actions aim to address immediate needs, support social inclusion, and enhance resilience during the cold season.
This contribution supplements the €22.9 million that the European Union has allocated to UNHCR in Moldova since 2023. It is part of a comprehensive assistance initiative led by the European Union’s Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, aimed at strengthening UNHCR’s efforts to provide essential humanitarian aid to refugees in Moldova. This includes cash assistance for refugees, protection services, and enhancing Moldova’s national protection capacities, particularly at border crossing points where refugees from Ukraine seek safety.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, now nearly three years, over 1.8 million refugees have crossed into Moldova. As of November 2024, the country hosts approximately 127,000 refugees. Efforts to support them are shifting towards sustainable protection and integration into national programmes. Refugees in the country face significant barriers, including limited access to healthcare, employment, and accommodation, as well as disruptions to their children’s education. For instance, many families struggle to afford rental housing or find schools with adequate language support for their children. These difficulties are further exacerbated by language barriers and the psychological toll of displacement, making integration especially challenging for the most vulnerable groups.
The European Union’s generous funding enables UNHCR to provide targeted support to both refugees and host communities in Moldova. This includes building the government’s capacity to enhance protection and services for refugees at the national level, as well as delivering targeted cash assistance to meet immediate needs. By funding these initiatives, the EU not only addresses urgent priorities but also supports long-term stability for families, ensuring refugees have access to territory, asylum, and safeguarding mechanisms. Additionally, the funding helps ease pressures on local communities and bolsters resilience, allowing Moldova to navigate both current and future challenges while enhancing refugees’ well-being and their ability to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.
Since the onset of the Ukraine refugee crisis in Moldova, EU funding has allowed UNHCR to assist over 135,000 refugees through vital cash assistance, empowering them to meet their most urgent needs safely and with dignity. UNHCR extends its deepest gratitude to the European Union for its significant contributions and unwavering commitment to protecting and supporting those most in need.
For media inquiries
in the Republic of Moldova:
Monica Vazquez vazquezm@unhcr.org
Renovated Sports Ground in Support of Refugee Inclusion
26 November 2024, Cahul, Republic of Moldova. UNHCR, in partnership with ACTED and the Cahul Municipal authorities, is proud to announce the opening of a newly renovated outdoor multi-functional sports field on Strada Ștefan cel Mare 15 in Cahul. This upgraded sports ground represents a vital step in local efforts to strengthen community integration and inclusion.
The opening ceremony, held today, was attended by local officials, representatives from UNHCR and ACTED, and members of the community. The event featured remarks from Cahul Mayor Dandiș Nicolae, UNHCR Representative to the Republic of Moldova Anne-Marie Deutschlander, and ACTED Country Director Fabrice Amaudruz.
The renovation is part of a broader initiative to create inclusive spaces that bring people together through sports, promoting a healthy lifestyle among children, teenagers, and adults.
The newly refurbished facility will provide a welcoming space for local youth and refugees to engage in recreational activities, fostering connections and building a shared sense of belonging.
Anne-Marie Deutschlander, UNHCR Representative to the Republic of Moldova, said:
“Sports is a universal language that unites people beyond borders. We are confident that this new facility will foster meaningful connections and promote peaceful coexistence between refugee and local children.”
“We remember how this space looked before, and now it’s vibrant and alive almost every day. This transformation not only encourages inclusion and friendships among peers but also inspires a healthier, more active lifestyle,” noted Cahul Mayor Dandiș Nicolae.
“We are thrilled to see the positive impact of our efforts. This project showcases the strength of collaboration, and we look forward to continuing our work with local authorities to benefit the community,” shared Acted Country Director, Fabrice Amaudruz.
For more information, please contact:
Monica Vazquez
vazquezm@unhcr.org | +373 609 44 339
Italy supports initiatives empowering vulnerable refugees and strengthening resilience in Moldovan host communities
CHIȘINĂU– The generous €2,000,000 contribution from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) will significantly boost support for refugees and the Moldovan communities that host them. This crucial funding will improve local capacities to provide inclusive and effective services, such as healthcare, education, and social support, benefiting both refugees and their hosts. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, extends its heartfelt gratitude to Italy for this timely and impactful contribution, which will help improve lives and strengthen refugee resilience during a critical time.
With generous support from Italy, UNHCR will promote social cohesion and inclusive development for vulnerable refugees and host communities throughout Moldova. Efforts will focus on strengthening local service providers to deliver community-driven support and foster integration. Tailored information and counselling services will improve access to vital resources for refugees with disabilities, encouraging their active participation in community life. Targeted cash assistance will help vulnerable refugees meet basic needs and build resilience, while essential mental health and psychosocial services will prioritise women, persons with disabilities, and older refugees to enhance their well-being, resilience, and inclusion.
Italy has been a committed supporter of the refugee response in Moldova and a long-time partner of UNHCR’s efforts both in the country and globally. Its continued contributions have been instrumental in addressing the needs of vulnerable refugees in Moldova and strengthening the resilience of host communities. On a global scale, Italy’s support has enabled UNHCR to deliver life-saving assistance, protection services, and long-term solutions to millions of forcibly displaced people, reinforcing a shared commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of refugees worldwide.
Note to editors:
UNHCR has supported Moldova’s refugee response since establishing a presence in 1997. The agency expanded operations significantly in February 2022 to address the influx of refugees from Ukraine, co-leading the interagency humanitarian response alongside the Moldovan government under the Regional Response Plan for the Ukraine Situation.
Key figures about the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova
Since February 2022, with the support of Italy and other donors, UNHCR has achieved significant milestones in Moldova:
- Cash Assistance: Over 136,000 refugees have received cash support, totalling approximately EUR 170 million.
- Protection Services: More than 183,000 individuals have benefitted from legal and protection services.
- Training for Responders: Around 4,500 frontline responders have been trained in core protection principles.
- Community Centres: Ten community centres supported by UNHCR provide safe spaces for refugees and Moldovans, fostering engagement and empowerment.
These efforts are implemented in close collaboration with the Government of Moldova, UN agencies, international and national NGO partners, and with invaluable contributions from refugees themselves.
UNHCR remains committed to advancing shared objectives of inclusion, resilience, and community cohesion in Moldova, ensuring refugees and host communities alike are supported.
For media inquiries:
In the Republic of Moldova:
Monica Vazquez vazquezm@unhcr.org
Regional Dialogue on HIV Response for Refugees and Displaced Persons
Chișinău, December 4-5, 2024 – The full-scale invasion of Ukraine has forcibly displaced millions, including people living with HIV. These individuals face critical challenges such as disrupted treatment, stigma, and limited access to healthcare services.
To address these pressing issues and explore sustainable solutions, UNAIDS Moldova and the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, are convening a regional conference on the protection and continuity of health and HIV services for internally displaced people and refugees from Ukraine. Taking place on December 4-5, 2024, in Chișinău, the event brings together representatives from government institutions, UN agencies, local and international NGOs, and members of refugee and host communities from Moldova and the region.
Over two days, participants will explore access to healthcare for HIV-positive refugees and people disproportionately affected by HIV for diverse reasons, innovative service delivery models, financing strategies, and the integration of refugees into national healthcare systems. The conference will also highlight best practices and challenges from countries like Romania, Poland, and Germany, offering a regional perspective on the HIV response.
“The war in Ukraine has created an unprecedented humanitarian crisis, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups, including people living with HIV. Globally, it is estimated that around 30,000 HIV-positive individuals have been forced to flee their country. Ensuring continuity of treatment is critical to preventing complications and drug resistance This conference is a unique opportunity to build sustainable regional solutions for those most affected by the crisis,” said Eamonn Murphy, UNAIDS Regional Director for Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
“HIV is fundamentally a human rights issue. While science and medicine provide the tools, it is through inclusion, empathy, solidarity, and a human rights approach that we will ultimately end this pandemic,” said Paul Olaf Stromberg, UNHCR Deputy Director of the Regional Bureau for Europe.
Since the onset of the full-scale war in Ukraine, Moldova has provided vital support to refugees, including those living with HIV. To date, around 300 HIV-positive refugees have received antiretroviral therapy, and over 8,000 individuals have accessed integrated services, including HIV prevention, mental health, and psychosocial support. Local NGOs, with the support of UNAIDS and UNHCR, have played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity of HIV services.
“Moldova’s exemplary solidarity with Ukrainian refugees shows what can be achieved when communities and organizations come together. It is essential to continue working collaboratively to ensure high-quality healthcare services that meet the specific needs of these vulnerable groups,” emphasized Svetlana Ciobanu, director of the NGO “Pas cu Pas,” Cahul.
The conference will feature experts and practitioners from Ukraine, Romania, Poland, and Germany, contributing to a comprehensive regional perspective on the HIV response for refugees and displaced persons. By fostering active engagement from regional stakeholders, Chișinău is becoming a key hub for advancing access to essential health services and protecting the fundamental rights of the most vulnerable.
UNHCR and Orange Foundation empowers digital learning in Moldova’s schools
Chisinau, 19 November 2024 — Gloria Theoretical High School marks a significant step in enhancing digital education for students and teachers in Moldova. Through a partnership between the Orange Foundation and the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), 30 schools across the country will receive digital tools to improve the learning of their students and teachers. As more refugee children in Moldova join physical classrooms, these tools will help ensure that both local and refugee students can benefit from a modern, inclusive education system.
Orange Foundation and UNHCR donated 90 digital kits—three per school—that make learning more interactive and engaging. Each kit includes tablets for students, a server for sharing materials, headphones for focused learning, an audio speaker for group activities, a projector for visual lessons, and a laptop to support teachers.
Schools and teachers receiving the kits will also get training to help them use the tools effectively in their classrooms. This training will focus on practical skills and new ways to improve learning.
“This program is about building inclusive and innovative education,” said Anne-Marie Deutschlander, UNHCR Representative in Moldova. “By equipping schools with these tools, we want to ensure that both local students and refugee children have equal opportunities to learn and grow in a technology-driven world.”
Olga SURUGIU, CEO Orange Moldova: “Orange Moldova has stood by the citizens of Ukraine from the very first day they needed help whether it was the allocation of voice traffic or free Internet, WiFi networks at border crossing points and Temporary Placement Centers or social inclusion of children in local communities through social projects. The donation that the Orange Group Foundation is making will help teachers to organize more interactive and engaging lessons for the little ones, and children – to discover the potential of technology and an appetite for digital innovation.”
By integrating these digital resources, the program supports Moldova’s goals to prepare a generation of digitally skilled and adaptable youth.