Press Releases

Nearly 40 filmmakers from the Republic of Moldova participated in the first short film festival in our country. Four of their creations, selected by the festival’s jury, were awarded professional Sony cameras. 

Launched in October 2023 by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the Association of Creative Companies of Moldova (COR) and USM’s Centre for Production and Technologies for Film, Gaming and New Media Industries, Mediacor, “One Minute Festival: On the Move” compiled theory with practice. For 2 weeks, all those who wanted to create a short film could sign up for courses and masterclasses with experts from the film and storytelling industry. In total, the filmmaking workshops brought together over 300 participants. 

Festival topics focused on forced displacement, refugee stories, hope away from home in the social-political context of recent years. After the theoretical part, participants had a few months to create their films and register them for the competition. 

On 5 April 2024, the closing event took place at Mediacor, where 49 short films were presented and the award ceremony for the four best short films according to the jury took place: 

1st place: Ceban Dmitrii, “Interdiction” 

2nd place: Nicolae Butuc, “Separation” 

3rd place: Rotaru Liviu, “There will be everything” 

With global forced displacement at a record high of over 108.4 million people, promoting inclusion and empathy is crucial and the creative industry has a key role to play as it can be a major driver of change. The One Minute: On the Move Festival has succeeded in giving voice to displaced people and refugee stories and creating a platform to facilitate the expression and exchange of ideas. 

  

Read more: 

  

  About the festival: https://www.1minfilms.md/ 

  About UNHCR Moldova: https://www.unhcr.org/md/ 

  About Mediacor: https://www.mediacor.md/ 

  About COR: http://cor.md/ 

 

For questions, please contact: 

Monica Vazquez 

[email protected] 

UNHCR External Relations Officer 

Chisinau, Republic of Moldova 

Chișinău, 15 February 2024. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in collaboration with the Republic of Moldova government, launched the 2024 Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP), aiming to assist 90,000 refugees and 35,500 vulnerable Moldovans with USD 303 million. Amid the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine, where hundreds of thousands sought refuge in Moldova since February 24, 2022, continued support remains essential. 

In a display of international cooperation and solidarity, authorities at all levels, the United Nations (UN), international and national non-governmental organizations (INGOs and NGOs), the private sector, academia and local civil society have partnered under the Refugee Response Plan for the Ukraine situation since February 2022. The document guides the humanitarian efforts, states the needs, and the financial support required. Moldova’s refugee response, now entering its third year, stands out as a role model, thanks to the effective and humane leadership of the government of the Republic of Moldova, the solidarity of Moldovans, and continuous international support.

“Thanks to the Government of the Republic of Moldova, the UN, humanitarian partners, and the people who collaborated and contributed to the elaboration of the Refugee Response Plan for the year 2024. This plan is the basis of our joint work in the country and is the only document in the region that targets refugees and locals alike. With the war in Ukraine still decimating lives and displacing people, coordinating efforts is essential to ensure assistance reaches those who need it most “, said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Moldova representative.
 

As we enter the third year of the Refugee Response in Moldova, recognizing joint achievements is crucial. In 2023, we reached with assistance nearly 160,000 individuals, including 51,000 vulnerable Moldovans. In 2023, 46,000 hosting family members, alongside over 86,000 refugees received cash assistance, injecting over 123,000,000 USD into the Moldovan economy. 

“The United States continues to be impressed by the nationwide response to the refugee situation and Moldova’s true hospitality. The United States has provided nearly $118 million to support refugees in Moldova – and their host communities – since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine “, declared Kent  Logsdon, United Stated Ambassador in the Republic of Moldova.

Another key achievement was the activating of Temporary Protection for the Ukrainian refugees. RRP partners worked closely with the government for a successful implementation, resulting in almost 30,000 refugees with TP status.

“Amid uncertainty, Moldova remains committed to defending human rights and democracy. We are confident that this year’s Refugee Response Plan will be guided by high-level collaboration and working shoulder to shoulder to achieve better results than last year”, stated Alexei Buzu, the Minister of Labor and Social Protection. 

Close collaboration with national and local civil society organizations led to a surge in their participation in the 2024 RRP, from two Moldovan NGOs in 2022 to 46 out of 82 total partners. 

The 2024 Refugee Response Plan focuses on key priorities. It aims to continue assisting individuals in obtaining legal status, particularly Temporary Protection prioritizes providing life-saving support for vulnerable individuals and enhancing their socio-economic inclusion, addressing barriers in accessing jobs, education, and healthcare. Additionally, it aims to promote social cohesion between refugees and host communities, preserving a welcoming and supportive environment. The plan also includes support for government authorities at all levels to enhance emergency preparedness, building resilience against future shocks caused by forced displacement.

 

 

As Moldova transitions from the emergency phase to an inclusion approach, the 2024 RRP emphasizes the need for continued international solidarity and close coordination to ensure a smooth evolution from the emergency to a sustainable inclusion, that builds a stronger Moldova for all. 

Relevant links:

• Regional Response Plan 2024 for the Ukraine situation.
• Moldova: Refugee Coordination Forum – 2024 Moldova RRP Objectives, Activities and Indicators (01 Jan 2024)
• Refugee Response Plan 2024 – Moldova – Annex on Nexus

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

(Chisinau, 19 January 2024): During his two-day visit to the Republic of Moldova, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, commended the commitment of the government of the Republic of Moldova and its people in protecting and assisting refugees from Ukraine seeking safety in the country. This acknowledgement took place during a meeting with the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees conducted his third official visit to the country on the 18th and 19th of January.

The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, expressed her gratitude for the support provided by UNHCR in managing the humanitarian crisis following the onset of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.

The President mentioned that despite limited resources, the Republic of Moldova has firmly demonstrated solidarity with Ukrainian citizens seeking refuge in the country. As the war in the neighbouring country persists, the head of state reiterated the commitment to providing temporary protection for refugees in accordance with European standards.

“For nearly two years, the government and people of Moldova have shown remarkable courage, determination, and warmth in welcoming, protecting, and assisting refugees from Ukraine. They are an example to the world. Despite the strong global support received, the current situation demands an even greater level of solidarity from the international community, matching Moldova’s unwavering commitment. I appeal for much more support – humanitarian, development and bilateral – for refugees of course, but equally for Moldova and Moldovans.” Expressed Filippo Grandi.

The Republic of Moldova, both its people and government, have played a crucial role in providing a secure environment for those displaced by the war. Beyond warmly welcoming refugees, Moldova has taken significant legislative measures, granting temporary protection to Ukrainians and with-it ensuring access to services in the country.

Furthermore, Moldova actively engaged in the Global Refugee Forum, demonstrating its commitment by making nine pledges to support refugees. Its exemplary efforts have earned international recognition, showcasing Moldova as a positive example, even among larger nations. These commitments encompass a broad spectrum, emphasizing refugee inclusion, safeguarding child rights, promoting gender equality, mitigating the risk of gender-based violence, and ensuring the delivery of comprehensive services for refugee survivors.

Earlier this week UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, asked for continued international support for the Ukraine Situation Refugee Response Plan (RRP) to enable providing much-needed assistance for Refugees from Ukraine seeking safety in neighbouring countries including the Republic of Moldova.

During his visit, the High Commissioner Filippo Grandi, joined by UNHCR’s Regional Director for Europe, Philippe Leclerc, and UNHCR’s Representative to the Republic of Moldova, Francesca Bonelli; met with Moldova’s Minister of Labour and Social Protection, Alexei Buzu at Centrul de plasament pentru Persoane Vârstnice și Persoane cu Dizabilități. The High Commissioner also met with Minister of Internal Affairs Adrian Efros at UNHCR’s registration centre. Partner organizations CRS and CDA provided updates on operations, including UNHCR’s cash assistance program and legal support for refugees.

 

The High Commissioner also joined a discussion with the international community and the World Bank, and visited community initiatives and local infrastructures in Palanca. UNHCR has been actively partnering with local authorities hosting refugees to enhance services for both the refugee population and the host communities.

 

 

Note to editors

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 Refugee Response Plan (RRP) for the Ukraine Situation.

 

Key figures about the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova

• More than 126,000 refugees received cash assistance since 24 February 2022 (over USD 146M disbursed to refugees)
• Around 177,000 refugees have been supported with legal assistance since 24 February 2022
• Around 2,300 refugees are now hosted in 44 refugee accommodation centres supported by UNHCR, while others live in host communities.
• Ten Community Centers are operational in the country, providing safe spaces and activities for refugees and Moldovans alike. These centers are pivotal in facilitating community engagement and support, embodying a commitment to connectivity and empowerment.

 

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Media contacts

In Moldova:

• Monica Vazquez, [email protected], +373 609 44 339

Chişinău 18^th January 2024. UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, warmly welcomes the generous contribution of NOK 35,000,000 (EUR 3,092,503) from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation. These funds will enable UNHCR to continue supporting the Government of Moldova in ensuring access to temporary protection, protection services, and psychosocial support. In addition to ensuring refugees’ basic needs are met through cash assistance for the most vulnerable refugees.

 

This contribution will enhance UNHCR’s support to the Government of the Republic of Moldova in safeguarding the rights of refugees. It involves providing guidance, technical assistance, and capacity building for national authorities. Furthermore, it will empower Moldovan authorities and UNHCR to expand outreach and information-sharing initiatives with refugees. The aim is to ensure that refugees not only secure legal status in Moldova but also have the means to access services and employment. This approach fosters improved self-reliance among refugees, facilitating their better integration into local communities and enhancing their ability to contribute meaningfully.

It will also go towards supporting refugees with multi-purpose cash assistance to ensure their domestic and most urgent needs are met safely, securely, and dignifiedly. The UNHCR’s Cash Assistance program supports refugees by providing them with financial resources and flexibility to meet their diverse needs. It empowers refugees to decide based on their priorities, fostering dignity and autonomy. This approach not only addresses the unique challenges faced by displaced populations but also stimulates local economies by encouraging refugees to engage in local markets.

“For decades, Norway has made important contributions to refugees, including by providing substantive support to UNHCR’s global programmes. UNHCR is grateful for the strong partnership and cooperation with Norway in supporting the protection of the high number of refugees around the world and in Moldova.” stated Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR Representative in Moldova.

Moldova has received more refugee arrivals from Ukraine per capita than any other country in the region, one for every three Moldovan citizens, since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Over 120,693 refugees from Ukraine now remain in Moldova, the vast majority of whom are women, children, and older people.

End

 

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.

Key figures about the refugee response in the Republic of Moldova:

• More than 126,000 refugees received cash assistance since 24 February 2022 (over USD 146M disbursed to refugees)
• Around 177,000 refugees have been supported with legal assistance since 24 February 2022
• Around 2,300 refugees are now hosted in 44 refugee accommodation centres supported by UNHCR.

Chisinau 14 December 2023 –The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) applauds the active involvement of the Republic of Moldova in the 2023 Global Refugee Forum. Minister Adrian Efros, Minister of Internal Affairs, and Minister Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labour and Social Protection, joined and addressed the forum in different events. Additionally, Ms. Irene Basiul from the National Congress of Ukrainians of Moldova and Ms. Elena Sirbu from the Roma Women Platform ROMNI, representing Moldovan civil society, also participated in the forum sharing their experience.

The Republic of Moldova is committing to nine pledges with a focus on refugee inclusion, safeguarding child rights, promoting gender equality, mitigating the risk of Gender-Based Violence, and delivering comprehensive services for refugee survivors.

” The refugee response brought together partners, organizations, and the government to collaborate seamlessly. Now is not the time to do less for refugees. In Moldova, we are driven by a strong political commitment to effect positive change on gender issues. While making strides in promoting gender equality, we recognize it is time to address gender-based violence.” Said Minister Buzu addressing the Gender Equality and Gender-Based Violence discussion panel.

The government has vowed to join the Global Alliance to End Statelessness. Furthermore, the government is dedicated to guaranteeing full enrolment and access to quality, inclusive education for all refugee children within the Moldovan education system.

“Ensuring safe stay and access to rights and services for refugees is a priority in our country. It is essential to safeguard the rights of those who sought temporary protection in the Republic of Moldova, and to collectively work for durable solutions.” Said Minister Efros addressing the session on the Ukraine Situation.

Additionally, the Municipality of Straseni is pledging to facilitate the socio-economic inclusion of refugees into their community, and the United Nations Country team has also reinforced their commitment to refugees.

“The Republic of Moldova continues to present a remarkable example.” Said Francesca Bonelli UNHCR Representative “Since the 24^th of February, the country took brave strides in creating a safe and welcoming environment for refugees. The Moldovan example is worthy to be supported, appreciated, and followed.

The Global Refugee Forum 2023 will take place from 13 to 15 December at the Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland, with side events held in other locations. The 2023 Forum is co-convened by five States – Colombia, France, Japan, Jordan and Uganda, and co-hosted by the Government of Switzerland and UNHCR.

Held every four years, the Forum is the world’s largest international gathering on refugees. It is designed to support the practical implementation of the objectives set out in the Global Compact on Refugees: Ease pressures on host countries, enhance refugee self-reliance, increase access to third-country solutions and improve conditions in countries of origin. It provides the opportunity for States and stakeholders to announce concrete pledges and contributions, highlight progress made, share good practices, and take stock of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

For detailed information about the pledges of the Republic of Moldova, visit the Pledges and Contributions dashboard

 

During a two-week mission to the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine and Poland, UNHCR Regional Director for Europe witnessed the conditions across the region and appealed for urgent renewed support for the coming year, to enable UNHCR to respond to the needs of those impacted by the ongoing full-scale war in Ukraine.

UNHCR’s Regional Director for Europe, Philippe Leclerc, spent the past two weeks witnessing the situation of Ukrainian refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and war-affected

communities in Ukraine and in the neighbouring Republic of Moldova and Poland. Some 6.3 million refugees from Ukraine remain uprooted from their homes, while 3.7 million people remain internally displaced in Ukraine.

“This past fortnight has been extremely eye-opening. Despite the outpouring of solidarity and generosity we witnessed across Europe following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine almost two years ago, there are significant challenges which remain for refugees as well as those in Ukraine impacted by the ongoing full-scale war,” said Leclerc.

In Moldova, the country hosting the highest number of refugees from Ukraine per capita, Leclerc met with the Moldovan authorities and expressed his gratitude for the continued solidarity and generosity shown to refugees from Ukraine, despite significant national challenges. He also met with refugee children and youth receiving support through UNHCR and partners, visited two of the Community Centres that promote inclusion and diversity in the country, and witnessed the impact of cash assistance on improving the daily lives of refugees and locals alike.

“So far this year, UNHCR has supported almost 950,000 people in Ukraine and neighbouring countries hosting refugees with cash assistance. This is essential in supporting national systems, and in ensuring that the most vulnerable can meet their basic needs with dignity,” said Leclerc.

From Moldova, Leclerc travelled to Ukraine where he met with Ukrainian authorities and visited Odesa, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Dnipro and Kyiv regions which have been deeply impacted by the full-scale war, continuous shelling and destruction of homes and civilian infrastructure. In 2023 so far, UNHCR in Ukraine and partners have reached more than 2.4 million people with protection services like free legal aid and psychosocial support, cash and in-kind assistance, emergency shelter materials and house and collective centre repairs.

In Kryvyi Rih, Leclerc met with internally displaced people who had been forced to leave their homes. 61-year-old Olha Myronova was forced to flee her home in Bahmut earlier this year, having spent months in her basement hiding from shelling. Olha received cash assistance and is waiting to receive a winterization top-up to help her through the harsh winter months.

Leclerc concluded his visit to the region in Poland, where he met with UNHCR partners, regional and local authorities in the city of Lublin, and refugees at a shelter run by a local foundation. He also visited a job fair in Lublin supported by UNHCR and partners. This is part of major ongoing efforts to foster the inclusion of refugees in the labour market, providing them with the opportunity to meet with employers in Poland directly. To date, some 42 per cent of refugees from Ukraine across neighbouring countries have managed to secure employment.

However, the vast majority have continued to express the desire to return once conditions are safe to do so, among them many vulnerable people. Irina, a 55-year-old refugee from Ukraine currently hosted in Poland, emphasized that “while we appreciate very much the support provided to us…we are keen to return and reunite with our families as soon as the war will be over. We appreciate the hospitality of Poland a lot, but home is home.”

As we approach the end of 2023, UNHCR in Ukraine is just two-thirds funded, and some 74 per cent funded in the neighbouring countries. UNHCR’s financial requirements for the Ukraine Situation in 2024 amount to USD 993 million, including Ukraine with a budget of USD 599 million.

“I’m deeply concerned that if we don’t see renewed support from the international community for the Ukraine situation, we may be forced to cut essential activities. Almost two years into the devastating full-scale war in Ukraine, humanitarian needs remain high. We cannot forget those forced to flee Ukraine, or those in Ukraine who need our support” added Leclerc.

Chişinău- UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency launched the Community Forum 2023. A platform aimed at building the capacity of the local grassroots initiatives led by the refugees and local communities, by providing them with the necessary tools to access funding opportunities and to create a platform for networking, experience exchange, and collaboration.

Representatives of refugee communities, host communities, Ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, LGBTIQ+, youth, older persons, local authorities, and volunteers convened for two days in a collaborative environment to work on developing an understanding of the changing humanitarian space and needs, and to acquire the necessary skills to navigate the shifting demands of the people in need.

“The launch of the Community Forum 2023 signifies a significant step toward building stronger, more resilient communities.” Said Francesca Bonelli, UNHCR representative in the Republic of Moldova “By fostering collaboration between refugee and host community organizations, we aim to create a space where diverse perspectives are celebrated, and solutions are co-created. This platform is not just a forum; it’s a movement towards a more connected, supportive, and sustainable future.”

The two-day presentations and discussions were led by refugee and Moldavan activists, humanitarians, and entrepreneurs who opted to participate amid an open call by UNHCR for interested entities and initiatives. The discussions included presentations of good practices in fundraising, project management, community engagement and mobilisation, and communication.

UNHCR prioritise building local capacities to encourage self-reliance to increase the cost-effectiveness of humanitarian programmes. And to prepare the humanitarian actors for the shift towards more durable solutions for refugees and the communities hosting them.

Chişinău 4^th 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

Chisinau, 1^st 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.