UNHCR is grateful to the Republic of Austria and the Swiss Confederation for contributions to operations in the Republic of Moldova
Chişinău 4th September 2023 UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes the generous contribution of EUR 1,500,000 from the Austrian Development Agency and EUR 1,071,415 from the State Secretariat for Migration of Switzerland. These funds will enable UNHCR to continue supporting the Government of Moldova in ensuring access to temporary protection and enhancing the self-reliance and integration of refugees while also supporting local communities.
This contribution will help to build upon UNHCR’s support to the Government of the Republic of Moldova in protecting the rights of refugees through providing guidance, technical assistance, and capacity building for national authorities. It will further enable the Moldovan authorities and UNHCR to extend outreach and information sharing with refugees, to ensure they secure legal status in Moldova and can access the opportunities available in the country.
It will also go towards building a more inclusive work environment by supporting the Moldovan National Agency for Employment to provide refugees with vocational training to enhance their employability in local labour markets. UNHCR and local partners will continue supporting employment facilitation, Romanian language courses, and day-care centres for children whose parents are working or studying.
“This gesture of solidarity showcases the impactful difference that can be made through international collaboration. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Austria and Switzerland for their firm support in aiding both refugees and the Moldovan community that welcomes them. This contribution will help to accelerate the integration of refugees and strengthen the capacity of local services to benefit both communities,” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative in Moldova.
Moldova has received more refugee arrivals from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide, one for every three Moldovan citizens, since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Over 109,000 refugees from Ukraine now remain in Moldova, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and older people.
Further information for journalists
UNHCR in Moldova has been supporting government-led efforts to provide protection and support to refugees since establishing a presence in the country in 1997. UNHCR significantly expanded its operations in the country in late February 2022 in response to the arrival of refugees from Ukraine and joined the Government of Moldova in co-leading the interagency humanitarian response aligned with the Regional Response Plan (RRP) for the Ukraine Situation.
- 120,500 refugees received cash assistance since the 24th of February 2022 (over USD 114.8M disbursed to refugees)
- 167,494 refugees supported with legal assistance since 24th of February 2022
- 2,444 refugees are now hosted in 53 refugee accommodation centres supported by UNHCR
UNHCR and The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Foster Inclusion and Cultural Diversity for the Benefit of Refugees and Moldovan Communities
Chisinau, 1st of August 2023 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova signed a memorandum of understanding in which by it both parties affirm their commitment to strengthen mutual understanding, and bridge the gaps between refugees, local communities, and people with different cultural backgrounds.
UNHCR will support the creation of cultural events, exhibitions, workshops, and educational activities that promote intercultural dialogue. Furthermore, The Ministry of Culture and UNHCR will develop and implement joint activities to foster cultural integration and social inclusion among refugees and asylum-seekers through art, music, and choreography. This will provide opportunities for individuals to engage in music-related and choreography activities, such as workshops, training programs, and performances, where they can express their cultural heritage and develop their musical talents.
“Art, music, and dance are powerful means of expression in which refugees process their experiences,” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative in the Republic of Moldova “Art also fosters a sense of belonging and connection among refugee and local communities, something invaluable for refugees especially youth and children living away from their home countries”.
Cultural inclusion of refugees provides a space for open communication where they find ways to contribute to local communities and encourage mutual respect. It is the most effective way of helping refugees to rebuild their lives.
To show solidarity with refugees, and to recognize their importance and contributions to society, The Government of the Republic of Moldova have declared the year 2023 as the Year of Ukrainian Culture in Moldova.
“This collaboration aims to foster social cohesion and mutual respect by providing platforms for cultural expression and interaction.” Said Sergiu Prodan, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Moldova “And through these platforms, individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together, share their unique perspectives, and engage in meaningful dialogue, ultimately strengthening their understanding and appreciation of one another. This initiative will nurture a sense of unity and interconnectedness, to create a more inclusive and harmonious society”.
The Republic of Moldova has received more refugees from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide: for every three Moldovan citizens, one person from Ukraine has arrived since the war began.
Additional Information for Journalists
- As of 30 July 2023, out of the total 889,269 arrivals, 109,229 Ukrainian refugees are currently hosted in Moldova, 59 per cent of whom are women and girls, and 46% are children.
- Since the beginning of the refugee influx, UNHCR alone has delivered more than US$100 million worth of assistance and support in Moldova, in addition to the contributions of other humanitarian and development actors, as well as direct bilateral donor support to the Government.
UNHCR thanks the United States of America for its contribution to its operation in the Republic of Moldova
Chişinău 19 July 2023. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes the contribution of USD 11,600,000 from the Government of the United States of America for crucial humanitarian assistance to refugees and host communities, asylum-seekers, and stateless people in the Republic of Moldova.
The United States’ generous contribution helps build upon UNHCR’s support to the Government of the Republic of Moldova in ensuring access to temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine and their families, expediting refugee inclusion and supporting local communities hosting refugees.
“The United States has always demonstrated unwavering support for forcibly displaced people around the world as well as the communities who receive them, ensuring that refugees find solace, security, and hope when they need it most,” notes Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR’s Representative for the Republic of Moldova.
This contribution will strengthen local capacity in providing community services for refugees and local communities alike, emphasizing important opportunities for an inclusive and friendly environment for refugees in the country. Also, the donation will facilitate vulnerable refugees’ access to targeted cash assistance to help meet basic needs, increase resilience, and allow them to contribute to local economies.
The United States of America continues its substantial support to UNHCR’s Moldova operation, building upon its sizable contribution in 2022 as the top individual donor to its operation in the Republic of Moldova.
“The United States is committed to supporting refugees and vulnerable migrants in Moldova and around the world, and this contribution is an example of that continued commitment,” said Kent Logsdon, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova. “We commend the Moldovan government, people, and important international partners like UNHCR for their outstanding response to the humanitarian crisis brought on by Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine.”
The Republic of Moldova has received more arrivals from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide: one for every three Moldovan citizens since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Over 106,000 refugees from Ukraine now remain in Moldova, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and older people.
UNHCR in Moldova has been supporting government-led efforts to provide protection and support to refugees since establishing a presence in the country in 1997. UNHCR significantly expanded its operations in the country in late February 2022, in response to the influx of refugees from Ukraine, and joined the Government of Moldova in co-leading the interagency humanitarian response aligned with the Regional Response Plan (RRP) for the Ukraine Situation.
Further information for journalists
- 117,468 refugees received cash assistance since 24 February 2022 (over USD 103.2M disbursed to refugees)
- 152,087 refugees supported with legal assistance since 24 February 2022
- 2,279 refugees are now hosted in 53 refugee accommodation centres supported by UNHCR
- UNHCR and its partners provided 5,040 refugees with psychosocial support and psychological first aid since 24 February 2022
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans thanks to the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation and Low Vision Centre
Chișinău, 26 June 2023. The OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation and Low Vision Centre Moldova joined forces this week with the Republic of Moldova’s Ministry of Health, Ungheni City Hall and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to launch temporary eye clinics in Chişinău and Ungheni. These clinics will offer free eyecare services to Moldovans and refugees alike, in Chişinău from 26-28 June and in Ungheni from 30 June to 1 July.
“I haven’t have my eyes checked in a long time,” said Valentina, an 84-year-old refugee from Ukraine. “I heard people talk about the free clinics and registered. Eye care is usually expensive but I got two pairs of prescription glasses for free here.”
This project aims to improve eyecare services for refugees and Moldovans in these areas by distributing eyeglasses to at least 1,000 individuals as well as supporting training for local eyecare professionals. Collaborating with the Low Vision Centre, the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation will bring volunteer technicians from Italy, eye measurement equipment, and eyeglasses for these temporary clinics. “We are pleased to offer free eyecare services and eyeglasses to refugees and host communities in Chişinău and Ungheni,” explains Frédéric Corbasson, the Executive Director of the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation.
OneSight’s technicians will work alongside local volunteers, including from NGOs, students from the Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy of the Republic of Moldova, and the Ungheni City Hall. In addition to helping provide eye care services to the public, the OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation will donate the equipment they brought to the Low Vision Centre and conduct training sessions for local colleagues and university students.
“We are grateful to OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation and the Low Vision Centre for helping so many refugees and Moldovans see better,” said UNHCR Country Representative for the Republic of Moldova Francesca Bonelli. “Private sector partnerships like this show solidarity through concrete support to both refugees and host communities alike.”
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
Free, temporary eye clinics to open in Chişinău and Ungheni for refugees and Moldovans
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes a contribution of EUR 3,000,000 from the Government of Italy for crucial humanitarian assistance to Ukrainian refugees and host communities in the Republic of Moldova.
The people of Italy’s generous contribution bolsters UNHCR’s support to the Government of the Republic of Moldova, with a focus on ensuring access to temporary protection for refugees from Ukraine and their families, supporting refugee inclusion, and helping host communities. This contribution will strengthen local capacity for community services, including development and social cohesion for vulnerable refugees and local communities alike. It also includes targeted cash assistance to vulnerable refugees to help them meet their basic needs and enhance their resilience.
“Italy is an important partner in protecting and assisting refugees, stateless persons, returnees, and internally displaced around the world – and especially in the Republic of Moldova,” notes Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR’s Country Representative for the Republic of Moldova. “Their support means UNHCR can continue to help communities improve services for vulnerable refugees and Moldovans alike.”
With this contribution, Italy continues its significant support to UNHCR’s Moldova operation, while last year, Italy was one of UNHCR Moldova’s top donors. “Italy keeps standing in full and tangible solidarity with the Republic of Moldova and the refugees from Ukraine that they have received so warmly and efficiently,“ said Lorenzo Tomassoni, Ambassador of Italy to the Republic of Moldova. “This three million Euro cash assistance and related strengthened community services will help both Moldovans and refugees here build a better future together, also in the perspective of the EU accession process.”
The Republic of Moldova has received more arrivals from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide: one for every three Moldovan citizens since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Nearly 104,000 refugees from Ukraine now remain in Moldova, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and older people.
UNHCR Moldova has been supporting government-led efforts to provide protection and support to refugees since establishing a presence in the country in 1997. UNHCR significantly expanded its operations in the country in late February 2022, in response to the influx of refugees from Ukraine, and joined the Government in co-leading the interagency humanitarian response aligned with the Regional Response Plan (RRP) for the Ukraine Situation.
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR is grateful to the Government of Italy for their contribution to supporting Refugees from Ukraine and host communities in the Republic of Moldova
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
Chişinău 21 June 2023. The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova, and UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency organized an event yesterday at the National Museum of History to commemorate World Refugee Day. The theme of this year’s World Refugee Day – “Hope away from home: A world where refugees are always included” – is particularly relevant to the Republic of Moldova’s powerful example of refugee inclusion.
The United Nations designated 20 June as an international day to recognise the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict, persecution, or other human rights violations. It is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight as well as to express gratitude to hosting countries like the Republic of Moldova.
“It is also a day to acknowledge an ugly truth: that we live in a world with 35 million refugees. A world that struggles to resolve the conflicts, persecution and violence that force so many people from their homes” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR representative. “It is however, also an opportunity to remind ourselves that working together is the only way to transform such ugly truth into a better future for everyone – regardless of where they come from.”
This year’s World Refugee Day theme also coincides with the Government’s Year of Ukrainian Culture in Moldova. “World Refugee Day is an opportunity to show solidarity with refugees, to recognize their importance and contributions to society, and to ensure that their rights and dignity are protected,” explained Minister of Culture Sergiu Prodan. “We must acknowledge that refugees, once provided with the necessary support and opportunities, have the potential to make significant contributions to host communities, enriching the societies in which they seek shelter. As a nation, we have consistently demonstrated our commitment to providing protection and assistance to those in need. Our efforts to offer refuge, relocation, and opportunities for integration to displaced individuals are evidence of our values of compassion, empathy, and inclusion.”
The event included a performance by the Moldovan National Youth Orchestra featuring special guest performances by UNHCR high-profile supporter Valentina Naforniţa and saxophonist Igor Znatokov of Ukraine.
UNHCR, in partnership with the Government, local authorities, United Nations partners, civil society and other community-led initiatives, also organized a series of events in commemoration of World Refugee Day this week in Chişinău, Bălți, Căușeni and Edineț.
On 17 June, UNHCR partnered with over 40 government, UN, humanitarian, International and national organisations to host a Day at the Park event in Chişinău, featuring educational and recreational activities for refugee and Moldovan families all day long, including musical performances from Moldovans and refugees from around the world.
Also on 20 June 2023, UNHCR, local authorities and partner organisations Charity Centre for Refugees, INTERSOS, the Law Center of Advocates and the National Congress of Ukrainians in Moldova in addition to ARIPI DE VIAȚĂ organised a family day at Vasyl Sukhomlynsky high school in Edineț. “I feel for the people who are forced to leave their home country because of war,” said President Maia Sandu, who joined the event. “Rest assured that we will spare no effort in making a safe and welcoming environment for refugees who stay in the country.”
The people and Government of Moldova have been praised globally for their exemplary refugee response. In March of this year, the Government of Moldova activated a temporary protection regime for refugees from Ukraine and their families. Temporary protection is a huge step forward for refugee inclusion in Moldova, including more stable access to legal status, rights, and services like healthcare.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has triggered nearly 849,000 arrivals into Moldova since 24 February 2022. Nearly 104,000 refugees from Ukraine have chosen to stay in Moldova, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and elderly.
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
UNHCR and the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova Commemorate World Refugee Day
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
Chisinau, 20 June 2023 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, handed over 22 anaesthesia machines to local hospitals in the Republic of Moldova to improve access to healthcare for refugees and host communities. The machines have been distributed to hospitals across the raions (regions), where they will contribute to providing better and more inclusive healthcare for all.
This is just one element of UNHCR’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the overall national services that the people and Government of Moldova have generously made available and accessible for refugees.
“We are working together, hand in hand with our donors, and the Government of Moldova to strengthen the country’s protection and social services,” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR representative. ” Improving the quality of services available will benefit not only refugees but Moldovans as well.”
Moldova provides essential health services to refugees, including vaccinations, mental health support, and maternal and child health services on an equal basis as to Moldovans.“Moldova is committed to ensuring that our health system provides support and care for all, including refugees,” said Ala Nemerenco, Minister of Health of the Republic of Moldova. “To achieve this end, we need to work to ensure that our healthcare facilities are adequately equipped to provide quality healthcare services to everyone.”
The United States provides critical support to UNHCR, including to the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova. This vital support has helped strengthen national capacities to accommodate and provide services to refugees generously hosted by Moldova since the start of the conflict in Ukraine last year.
“The United States works closely with our international partners and local communities to provide healthcare to refugees in Moldova and the communities that host them,” said Kent Logsdon, United States Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova. “We are investing in Moldova’s future by supporting better, more inclusive healthcare.”
In March of this year, the Government of Moldova activated a temporary protection programme for refugees from Ukraine and their families. Temporary protection is a huge step forward in ensuring refugee inclusion in Moldova, including more stable access to legal status, rights, and services like healthcare.
Despite many pressing economic challenges and limited resources, Moldovans have opened their country and their homes to refugees. Over 822,000 Ukrainian refugees entered the country since the 24th of February 2022 and over 101,835 Ukrainian refugees remain, almost half of whom are children.
UNHCR is grateful for the support from our top government donors and for the generous contributions from individuals and the private sector.
European Union l France l Iceland l Italy l Japan l Denmark l the United States of America
UNHCR is also grateful for the support provided by donors who have contributed to global UNHCR programmes with broadly earmarked and unearmarked funds.
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
UNHCR Provides 20 Local Hospitals in the Republic of Moldova with Anaesthesia Machines to Support Inclusive Healthcare
UNHCR and the Moldova State University sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Educate Students on Forced Displacement Issues and Refugee Advocacy
Chisinau, 11, April 2023 – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency and the Moldova State University (USM) signed a memorandum of understanding in which by it both parties solidify their commitment to educating students about the challenges of forced displacement and international refugee protection regime. UNHCR will support developing and offering an elective course, which would provide students with an opportunity to learn more about UNHCR’s mandate. Furthermore, UNHCR will avail opportunities for students to expand their skills and knowledge about refugees and humanitarian action through on-job and field training, given the students meet the agency’s eligibility criteria.
Strengthening students’ understanding of UNHCR’s mandate and forced displacement issues
Founded in 1946, The Moldova State University (USM) over time built an impeccable reputation at the national and international levels. Its creation constituted a basic pillar for the development and consolidation of higher education in the country. The Moldova State University represents the space where academic freedom is promoted. The university encourages pluralism of opinions, and creativity while ensuring quality higher education and research.
“We aim to equip future Moldovan professionals with the knowledge and skills to handle the pressing needs of refugees and to promote a more inclusive society. By working together, we can ensure that the rights and dignity of refugees are upheld, and their contributions to society are recognized and valued.” Igor Șarov, Rector of the Moldova State University “With the support of UNHCR students who study law, journalism, and social science can get in touch with over 75 years of accumulated knowledge and experience in working with refugees, and displaced people”.
Offering opportunities for training and internships
By offering these opportunities, UNHCR aims to increase the engagement of students with the needs of refugees and host communities, while also providing them with insights into pursuing careers in the humanitarian field. This initiative is vital in raising awareness and promoting advocacy for forced displacement issues.
“Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Moldovan people and Government are a great example of humanitarianism and solidarity with refugees and the most vulnerable,” Said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative “Such noble sentiments, combined with knowledge and skill is what the world and the humanitarian sector needs. This cooperation comes in line with the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and our commitment to contribute resources and expertise to enhance the quality and inclusiveness of the national educational system and facilitate access for refugee and host community students. I am looking forward to seeing more Moldovans working in international organizations, the UN, or becoming the future ambassadors of Moldova in the fields of human rights and development”.
This activity follows UNHCR’s commitment to supporting the Government of Moldova to strengthen its emergency preparedness and social protection capacities to ensure refugees’ safe and legal stay in the country.
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UNHCR and the Moldova State University sign a Memorandum of Understanding to Educate Students on Forced Displacement Issues and Refugee Advocacy
Additional Information for Journalists
- The Republic of Moldova has received more refugees from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide: for every three Moldovan citizens, one person from Ukraine has arrived since the war began.
- As of 11 April 2023, out of the 800,096 arrivals, 100,058 Ukrainian refugees are currently hosted in Moldova, 60 per cent of whom are women and girls and 46% are children.
- Since the beginning of the refugee influx, UNHCR alone has delivered more than US$100 million worth of assistance and support in Moldova, in addition to the contributions of other humanitarian and development actors, as well as direct bilateral donor support to the Government.
Japan and UNHCR support the Association of People with Disabilities of the Republic of Moldova with valuable equipment
With the support of Japan, UNHCR, the UN refugee agency is providing the Association of People with Disabilities of the Republic of Moldova (AOSIRM) with equipment including two cars with wheelchair access, power generators, laptops, printers, and 200 hygiene kits for adults and children. This assistance helps increase the AOSIRM’s capacity to identify, reach, and support more people in need — both Moldovans and refugees alike. In this way, UNHCR’s community-based approach is designed to invest in partners like AOSIRM to sustainably support refugees, local communities, and people with disabilities.
The Association of People with Disabilities of the Republic of Moldova has a long history of advocating for more inclusive legislation, policies, and representation in governmental councils and commissions for people with disabilities. The Association also acts as the main hub for providing assistive equipment and aid for people in need. It serves not only to citizens of Moldova but also refugees from Ukraine, with UNHCR’s support.
“This equipment will encourage us even more in our planned activities to help refugees from Ukraine and our fellow citizens” Said Mihail Marginean, President of AOSIRM “Furthermore, it will improve our logistics and implementation of various planned projects. Our partnership with UNHCR helps to raise the capacity of our organization and helps us become stronger and more viable to the people that we serve”
Projects like this are guided by UNHCR’s rights-based approach to disability reflected in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, focusing on the meaningful engagement of persons with disabilities in all decisions that affect them.
“When Russia began their aggression against Ukraine, many people had to flee for their lives, and they were all vulnerable. It is easy to see that people with disabilities found it the most difficult to make the journey to safety,” said Yoichiro Yamada, Japan’s Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova. “The activities of UNHCR, together with those of the Republic of Moldova and its people, embody human conscience and compassion.”
With over USD 9M this year in contributions for UNHCR operation in the Republic of Moldova, Japan is one of UNHCR’s top donors and a key strategic ally in the refugee response in the country. The support of Japan enabled UNHCR to provide a wide range of assistance to refugees and vulnerable host communities in the Republic of Moldova. “Japan is an important partner for our investments in community capacity here in the Republic of Moldova,” said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative in the Republic of Moldova. “We continue to support groups like AOSIRM that work with both Moldovans and refugees with disabilities.”
Japan’s support for important global initiatives such as the Sustainable Development Goals, the Human Security and the humanitarian-development-peace nexus, unquestionably identifies it as a key supporter of refugees and displaced people.
UNHCR actively supports the critical role played by civil society in serving refugee and host communities.
The Republic of Moldova has received more refugees from Ukraine per capita than any other country worldwide: for every three Moldovan citizens, one person from Ukraine has arrived since the war began. As of the 21st of March 2023, out of the total 791,093 arrivals, 100,366 Ukrainian refugees are currently hosted in Moldova, 60 per cent of whom are women and 46% are children.
Japan and UNHCR support the Association of People with Disabilities of the Republic of Moldova with valuable equipment ©UNHCR/ Salahaldeen Abdulrahman
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