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
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