“We Are One Community”: The Republic of Moldova Reaffirms its Commitment to Refugee Inclusion on World Refugee Day

Chișinău, Moldova — The General Inspectorate of Migration (IGM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), marked World Refugee Day in the Republic of Moldova with a series of events highlighting solidarity with refugees and reinforcing efforts to support their inclusion and integration across the country.

Held under the theme “We Are One Community”, this year’s commemorations underscored UNHCR’s continued collaboration with national authorities and partners to ensure that refugees not only find safety in the Republic of Moldova but contribute meaningfully to society.

The day opened with a high-level event at the State University of Moldova, organised by the IGM and UNHCR, in partnership with the State University, HIAS and the refugee-led organisation Female Support Force. Bringing together government officials, international partners, civil society, and members of the refugee community, the event highlighted how refugees are rebuilding their lives in Moldova while contributing to the country’s national economy.

Since 2022, Ukrainian refugees have generated an estimated MDL 1.6 billion in taxes and social contributions and have established more than 200 businesses. These figures demonstrate that inclusion is not only a humanitarian imperative, but also a strategic investment in Moldova’s long-term social and economic development.

The event featured sessions with presentations from empowered refugee women as well as from Refugee Response partners. Speakers and participants highlighted the shared challenges faced by both refugees and host communities, including rising living costs and broader economic uncertainty. Ensuring access to employment, education, healthcare, and essential services for refugees was identified as a key priority, to build resilient communities where the most vulnerable are not left behind.

It was also underscored that integration plays a vital role in enabling refugees to remain skilled, empowered, and economically active. This not only supports their inclusion in Moldova, but also positions them to contribute meaningfully to the reconstruction of Ukraine, should they choose to return once conditions allow for safe and voluntary return.

“The General Inspectorate for Migration reaffirms its commitment to continue strengthening the national asylum system and to actively contribute to the European path of the Republic of Moldova, so that every person seeking protection benefits from a fair procedure and the full respect of their rights,” said the Deputy Head of the General Inspectorate for Migration, Mr. Cornel Triboi.

Katja Saha, UNHCR Representative in Moldova, said: “Refugees face unique obstacles, yet they possess the same passions, talents, and professional aspirations as any Moldovan. They seek the opportunity to live in dignity and to contribute to the communities that welcomed them. Their inclusion is a strategic contribution to the country’s national aspirations, helping to address issues like brain drain, revitalizing the labour market, and driving economic growth. As UNHCR, we thank the Government of Moldova and all our partners for the commitment they continue to show towards refugees.”

Commemorations continued with a community event at the Temporary Accommodation Centre for Refugees in Chișinău, where Moldovan and refugee children participated in joint activities. Organized by IGM with support from partners, the initiative fostered interaction, inclusion and a sense of normalcy for young participants.

As Moldova continues to face funding pressures and growing needs, World Refugee Day 2026 serves as a reminder of the importance of sustained international support. Investing in refugee inclusion remains essential to building a more compassionate, resilient and prosperous future.