Press Releases

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.

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
[email protected] | +373 609 44 339

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.

The people of the Republic of Moldova will receive an honourable mention at the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award for going above and beyond the call of duty to protect refugees who sought safety in the Republic of Moldova after fleeing the full-scale war in Ukraine. This recognition highlights Moldova’s swift and compassionate action in response to one of the largest refugee movements in Europe’s modern history, the most significant since the Second World War. 

Since the massive escalation of war in Ukraine in February 2022, millions have sought refuge across borders to reach safety. Moldova, a country with a population of just 2.5 million, has generously welcomed over a million refugees from Ukraine, with over 100,000 remaining in the country today. 

From the earliest days of the war, Moldovans opened their doors and hearts, schools, and community spaces to those in need. Citizens, volunteers, and civil society organizations played a vital role in Moldova’s humanitarian response, working tirelessly to provide shelter, food, and emotional support to those fleeing the horrors of war. 

The people of Moldova, its government, national and local organizations, and private sector have worked together to create a sense of belonging for refugees, ensuring their inclusion into communities and providing them with the opportunity to build new lives.

Moldova now stands as the country hosting the highest proportion of refugees in Europe relative to its population. This honourable mention is a tribute to the Moldovan people’s unwavering solidarity, resilience, and humanitarian spirit in the face of global challenges. 

“The kindness and solidarity of the Moldovan people have been nothing short of extraordinary. In the face of an unprecedented challenge, they didn’t hesitate to open their homes, share their meals, and stand side by side with families fleeing war. This deep sense of humanity is what makes Moldova’s response so remarkable, and it is precisely why they are being recognized with this honorary mention. Their compassion has changed lives and continues to inspire the world,” says Anne-Marie Deutschlander, UNHCR Representative in Moldova. 

The awards will be presented at a ceremony in Geneva on October 14. Representing the people of Moldova at the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award ceremony are Zaharii and Tatiana Aramă, a couple who run a guest house in the village of Palanca near the border with Ukraine. As refugees began pouring across the border in 2022, they, like many of their neighbours, stepped up to provide hot meals and a place to sleep. 

Joining the Aramă family at the Geneva ceremony will be the renowned Moldovan soprano and UNHCR high-profile supporter, Valentina Nafornița, who will also perform on stage. They will receive the honourable mention on behalf of all Moldovan citizens and bring it back to the country. 

About the UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award 

Named after Norwegian humanitarian and diplomat Fridtjof Nansen, the UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award has been recognized since 1954 individuals, groups or organizations that have shown exceptional dedication in protecting and assisting refugees, internally displaced or stateless people. Moldova’s honourable mention acknowledges the nation’s exemplary leadership and extraordinary humanitarian efforts during a time of crisis. 

The nomination period for the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award ran from 24 January until 20 March 2024. A nomination for the People of Moldova was received among hundreds of nominations. The winners are selected by an independent Nansen Selection Committee. Selection is based on the nominee’s impact, innovation, commitment to advocacy, and collaboration. While other nominees won the global and regional awards in 2024, the UNHCR Selection Committee chose to recognize the People of Moldova as an honorary mention for their exceptional contribution to refugee protection.  The UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award Selection Committee selects the Nansen winners every year through a confidential process. 

About UNHCR’s work in the Republic of Moldova 

UNHCR supports the Government of the Republic of Moldova in enhancing its asylum and protection capacities. Working with local and international partners, UNHCR protects and promotes the rights of refugees, asylum-seekers, and stateless persons. Together with its partners, UNHCR provides essential services such as legal aid, cash assistance, psychosocial support, and improved access to education and employment opportunities for refugees and stateless people. UNHCR also collaborates with national and local institutions to ensure the protection of refugee rights and promote their socio-economic inclusion. 

In response to the ongoing refugee situation, UNHCR leads and coordinates Moldova’s refugee response plan, ensuring that those fleeing war and persecution receive the necessary protection and support, in close collaboration with authorities and partners. 

For more information on Valentina Nafornita’s work with UNHCR, please visit: Valentina Naforniţa | UNHCR

Global press release: Five trailblazing women win UNHCR’s Nansen Refugee Awards for their life-changing work | UNHCR

For queries, please contact:
Monica Vazquez
[email protected]
UNHCR External Relations Officer
Chisinau, Republic of Moldova 

On June 21, 2024, the Ion Creanga State Pedagogical University of Chisinau (UPSC), represented by Rector Alexandra Barbăneagră, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), represented by Bertrand Blanc, signed a Memorandum of Collaboration.

By signing this Memorandum, UPSC expressed its commitment to promoting and disseminating international humanitarian law, respecting human rights and international refugee law, and integrating refugee-related topics into its academic agenda and community services.

Recognizing the importance of spreading awareness about international refugee protection, UNHCR, through this agreement, commits to providing and regularly updating information on its activities in Moldova, the region, and globally. This includes joint publications, document translations, and organizing events to raise awareness about refugee issues in Moldova.

In line with the Memorandum’s guidelines, both parties have developed an Action Plan for the Academic Center for Refugee Protection “Sérgio Vieira de Mello” at UPSC. The Action Plan focuses on fostering research, community outreach, and psychological counseling for refugees. Through training programs, counseling, and assistance in finding resources and opportunities, the Center aims to facilitate refugees’ access to education, support their university studies, and help them acquire essential skills for successful integration.

Chişinău, 26th June 2024 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes the generous contributions from the Government of Denmark, contributing with DKK 10,000,000 (USD 1,453,065). The funds are earmarked at the country level, allow UNHCR to use them to support priorities across the operation. For example, the funds will enable UNHCR to meet the basic needs of the most vulnerable refugees hosted in Moldova through cash assistance and to provide most needed protection services, such as psychosocial support. The contribution will also allow UNHCR to continue supporting the Government of Moldova in providing access to international protection measures, including temporary protection and asylum. 

These funds will enhance UNHCR’s efforts to safeguard the rights of refugees in Moldova by providing guidance, technical assistance, and capacity building for national authorities. They will empower Moldovan authorities, at national and local level, and UNHCR to expand outreach and information-sharing initiatives with refugees, ensuring they secure legal status and access essential services and employment opportunities. This approach promotes improved self-reliance among refugees, facilitating their inclusion into local communities and enhancing their ability to contribute meaningfully. 

The funds will also help refugees by giving them resources to cover their basic needs in a safe and dignified way. The UNHCR’s cash assistance programme allows refugees to decide how to use the money, so they can buy what they need most for their families. This not only helps them deal with their unique challenges but also boosts local economies because refugees spend the money in local shops and markets. 

“For decades, Denmark has made important contributions to support refugees, including by providing substantive funding to UNHCR’s global programmes. UNHCR is grateful for the strong partnership and cooperation with Denmark to assist and protect the high number of refugees around the world and in Moldova,” stated the UNHCR a.i. Representative in the Republic of Moldova, Bertrand Blanc. 

Since the start of Russian Federation’s full-scale war on Ukraine in February 2022, Moldova has received more refugee from Ukraine per capita than any other country in the region, with one refugee for every three Moldovan citizens. Over 120,000 refugees from Ukraine, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and older people, now remain in Moldova. 

Globally, UNHCR is Denmark’s largest humanitarian partner in funding terms, and Denmark was UNHCR’s 8th largest government donor in 2023, providing almost USD 100 million. In addition to specific contributions such as those for Moldova, Denmark is also one of UNHCR’s most important partners for unearmarked funding, which allows us to respond globally to new emergencies and forgotten crises.