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Story
01 November 2024
UN Human Rights Awards 2024 - call for nominations. Extended deadline - 10 November.
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Story
29 October 2024
Natalia Conovca: There are no “special” employees, there are professionals
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Video
24 October 2024
UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ video message on UN Day 2024
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Latest
The Sustainable Development Goals in Moldova
In September 2015, the Republic of Moldova, alongside with 192 Member States of the United Nations committed to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development that provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future having at its heart the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The National Development Strategy "European Moldova 2030" (NDS) as well as the Government Action Plan ”Building a European Moldova” describe the short, medium and long-term strategic development vision of the country synchronizing the priorities, objectives, indicators and targets of international commitments taken by the Republic of Moldova, including the ones set in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, to the national context.
The Sustainable Development Goals are being monitored and evaluated by the United Nations Country Team through the Country Results Reports developed in coordination with the Government.
As of 2022, the Government has committed to monitor and report annually on the level of achievement of the SDGs in the country which allows the state to make necessary interventions to adjust and/or accelerate the pace of SDGs implementation.
Publication
23 September 2024
Pact for the Future, Global Digital Compact & Declaration on Future Generations
World leaders adopt a Pact for the Future that includes a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. The Pact covers a broad range of themes including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, digital cooperation, human rights, gender, youth and future generations, and the transformation of global governance.
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Publication
23 September 2024
Resolve: Report of the Secretary-General on the Work of the Organization 2024
The present report shows that, despite the difficulties, progress is possible, and change is achievable.Despite the obstacles in their way, the staff of the United Nations' commitment to a better, brighter future shines through in all that they do. Their resolve is to achieve results for the people of the world and to deliver the help and the hope that every person deserves – and that the human family needs today, more than ever.Download the Introduction [PDF, 2MB]
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Publication
29 April 2024
Leveraging the Synergies of the EU Accession and the SDGs for the Sustainable Development of Moldova
The United Nations in Moldova, the Government of the Republic of Moldova and the EU Delegation have mapped the synergies between the EU accession process and the SDGs under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. According to the analysis, there is a strong complementarity and synergy between the EU accession agenda, the 2030 Agenda and SDGs as mutually reinforcing processes. The mapping shows that 128 SDG targets (76%) are connected to individual EU accession negotiation chapters or clusters. Moreover, out of 111 of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2023–2027 indicators, 93% are linked to the policy recommendations from the 2023 European Commission (EC) report.
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Publication
05 June 2024
Assessment of knowledge gaps in the electoral field and level of civic engagement
The overall objective of the survey was to identify knowledge gaps and to assess the level of civic engagement of the population with a focus on certain vulnerable groups.The survey was based on a poll in a sample, which was national-level and representative of general adult population, covered all regions of Moldova and included both urban and rural residents; it was supplemented by two boost samples – those of persons with disabilities and Roma people. The focus group was adult population aged 18 or older, persons with disabilities and Roma people from 160 localities. A total of 1,507 respondents were interviewed face-to-face at home, including 1,158 persons representing general public and additionally 192 ethnic Roma and 157 persons with disabilities. Thus, the applied method was that of layered semi-probability sampling with four sampling steps. The error margin for a sample of this size representing general public is ± 3%. The information was gathered between 27 October and 30 December 2023.The survey also included a qualitative component. Six focus group discussions were held to this end with an average of 7.5 participants per group. The total number of focus group discussions participants was 45. The discussions were held with the groups of young people representing rural and urban residents, women, older people, people with disabilities, and Roma people.
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Publication
02 July 2024
Ukraine Situation - Moldova: Inter-Agency Operational Update (Quarter 1 - 2024)
The first quarter of 2024 witnessed important achievements regarding the overall situation of refugees from Ukraine in Moldova. On February 28, 2024, the Moldovan Government approved the extension of Temporary Protection (TP) until March 1, 2025. This decision addressed key advocacy points raised by the RRP sectors and partners in 2023, building upon the initial government decision from January 2023.
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Story
01 November 2024
UN Human Rights Awards 2024 - call for nominations. Extended deadline - 10 November.
United Nations (UN) in the Republic of Moldova is launching the 18th edition of the competition for the UN Human Rights Awards 2024 with the aim of marking the most valuable actions to promote and protect human rights in the Republic of Moldova.The competition aims to highlight and reward the most creative, innovative, effective, timely and participatory initiatives and actions for the protection and promotion of human rights in the Republic of Moldova on both banks of Nistru River. The 2024 competition includes three awards as it follows:General award for an outstanding human rights achievement at national and/or local level with direct and sustainable impact on rights holders;Special award for outstanding human rights achievement in protection and promotion of the rights of children, especially children belonging to marginalized groups, in the context of 35th anniversary of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child;Special award for remarkable achievement in promoting gender equality and women empowerment, in the context of 30th anniversary of the ratification by Moldova of the UN Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against.The nominations for any of the above-mentioned awards can be submitted online by filling in the Nomination Form available in Romanian, Russian, English or in another minority languages spread in the Republic of Moldova (in this case, Romanian or Russian will be selected as appropriate, and answers will be given in the minority language).The nomination should cover nominee’s/self-nominee’s human rights work during the period 1 November 2023 and 31 October 2024.Both third-party and self-nominations are accepted.All submitted nominations should include the following information:The name of the nominated person or entity, including contact information;Details as to the relationship between the nominating person or entity, and the nominated person or entity;Detailed reasoning as to why the person, organisation or entity should be provided with an award. An indicative length for the detailed reasoning is 750-2000 words. In providing the detailed reasoning, due regard should be given to:Explaining, in clear, factual language, why the nominee should receive a human rights award (providing relevant factual description of the acts undertaken by the nominee which merit award); Reflecting on the nominee’s human rights work considering the selection criteria (human rights impact, innovation and creativity, dedication and commitment, bravery in addressing difficult themes or issues, outreach and visibility, professionalism and highest standards of ethics).Mention of the category under which the nomination should be considered.Please note: The nomination category can be changed by the Independent Awards Board, if considered necessary.The nominated candidates should not have received UN Moldova Human Rights Awards in the last 4 years. Also, the actions that form the object of award should not have been implemented by means of UN funding and/or with UN entities’ support. For more details on the nomination process, please consult the Regulation on the organization and conduct of the competition for best actions to promote and protect human rights for UN Human Rights Awards 2024.The completed Nomination forms can be submitted online with confirmation of nomination submission to the email address rco.moldova@un.org . The deadline for the registration of candidates is 3 November 2024, 18:00 o’clock.Attention! The deadline for candidates' registration was extended to 10 November 2024. All the materials of nominated persons or entities, received within the public call, as well as, during the analysis of other available materials, will be judged by a team of experts and an independent Board, made up of representatives of international organizations and missions and independent experts.The Nominations/self-nominations will be assessed according to criteria including the following:Human rights impact;Innovation and creativity;Dedication and commitment;Bravery in addressing difficult themes or issues;Outreach and visibility;Professionalism and compliance with the highest standards of ethics.Award winners do not have to necessarily fulfil all the above criteria.The winners of the competition will be announced and awarded during an event organized on the occasion of the anniversary of International Human Rights Day.
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Story
29 October 2024
Natalia Conovca: There are no “special” employees, there are professionals
She has been managing a translation company in Chisinau for 21 years. She is an empathetic person with a lot of tact in relations with people, while the team she coordinates is a beautiful example of social inclusion.She studied international economic relations, being passionate about mathematics and foreign languages. After graduating from the university she opened a translation company together with her husband.“The company is our third child (she smiles). It is 21 years old. At first, we only provided written translation services, then we also started covering event interpretation. We translate into and from Romanian, Russian, English, and lately Ukrainian, because there is demand.”Today, the company staff is represented by 33 employees, among which two persons with disabilities, thus being an admirable model of an inclusive team. “My civic stance, but also from an employer's perspective, is that each one of may succeed in his/her work as it may very well fail with it. For example, if I cannot translate into Russian, it is a challenge in my field of work. Having this conviction, I have looked for professionals in the first place for my team and I do not consider that these two colleagues are “special” or any different from the others in the company. There was no need to adapt any of our internal processes just because they joined. They are passionate about what they do, responsible, very communicative, and professional in relations with clients. This was my focus of interest in the job interviews and I am glad that Andrei and Vladislav are part of the team”, states Natalia. Vladislav is a translator. He graduated from the Faculty of Foreign Languages with the specialization “Foreign Languages for Diplomatic Corps”. He has been working in Natalia's company since 2019. “I remember that five years ago, when I hired Vladislav, it was from his papers that I realized he would have a disability. He sent his CV, came for the interview, and passed a regular recruitment process. He did not ask for any facilities and demonstrated the knowledge and skills he had at that time”, mentions Natalia.Andrei, another office employee, has a physical disability. Like Vladislav, he joined the team five years ago. His studies are in other fields than translation, but he is convinced now that this job best suits his passion and abilities.“I graduated from the College of Viticulture and Winemaking, and later the Faculty of Law. That was what my parents wanted, although I always liked computer science and everything related to new technologies”, recounts Andrei smiling. “I did not get here by recommendation. The company was looking for staff and Mrs. Conovca knew me from the Association of Professional Translators, I came for the interview and stayed”, he continues enthusiastically.If initially Andrei was more involved in client relations, later he became a translation technician. “I know for sure that he is one of the most sought-after professionals in his field”, states Natalia proudly.“When I was a student, it used to be much more complicated than now in employment”, tells Andrei with emotion. “They would humiliate me, I had the impression that people in the street were staring at me, they seemed to be scared away.”Andrei encourages people with disabilities to bring out what they are best at when talking to an employer: “And for employers, as well as for people who are looking for a job, I have the same advice: do not focus on disability, emphasize abilities first!”To the question “Is our society inclusive?”, both Natalia and Andrei believe there is room for improvement. If things have changed significantly at the attitude level, great efforts are still required in terms of infrastructure.According to the labor force survey data, the participation rate of persons with disabilities in the labor force in 2023 was 17%, which is three times lower than that of persons without disabilities. *** This story is part of the UN Moldova awareness raising campaign ”Stand for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities – No One Must Be Left Behind." An initiative that is part of the UN ongoing efforts to promote the inclusive and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in all their diversity in decision-making processes at all levels. The story was developed with the financial support of the UN Human Rights Moldova within the project "Paradigm Shift to Disability Inclusive Services, Accountability and Governance in Moldova", implemented by UN Human Rights Moldova, UNDP Moldova, and UNICEF Moldova funded by to the United Nations Partnership for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD). The views expressed in the paper do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the UN Human Rights or the UNPRPD.
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Story
22 October 2024
Vasile Savca: “I have decided to share my story to encourage persons with disabilities to engage”
He is convinced that if he is the last person to remain in the village "to turn off the lights", he would still be found there. Carnateni village is about 80 km away from the capital and about 10 km from the district center.Ten years ago, after a work accident, Vasile ended up being a user of a wheelchair. Although his life has changed significantly since that moment, now he is a man who exudes enthusiasm and good mood, is an extremely involved civic activist, and has a great dream: that all public institutions in Moldova become accessible for persons with disabilities. Since 2021 Vasile has been the deputy chairman of the Causeni District Participation Council. He wants his life story and the situation he has found himself in to inspire and exemplify that “it can be different", while his successes are a living proof of that.Life before the accidentAfter about seven years of working abroad, Vasile returned to his village with the intention to open a small business. He bought two specialized trucks and transported different goods from Causeni to Chisinau. In the summer of 2010, he was transporting straw bales for a mushroom growing company. Due to negligence of an employee, two of the bales toppled over Vasile, leaving him immobilized. “Fifteen minutes after the accident, I was already in the hospital, but the intervention was performed only seventy-two hours later, due to lack of money and other bureaucratic reasons. Too much time had passed, and the spinal cord could no longer be restored”, confesses the protagonist with emotion.I think an inborn disability is otherwise lived, then the one that was acquired during the life.For a year after the accident Vasile stayed in a straight position only, bedridden. Expensive treatment and trips to the hospitals followed, but unfortunately the situation did not change. The reality had to be accepted, and he needed strength to start all over again. “You know, I think an inborn disability is otherwise lived, then the one that was acquired during the life.” Vasile shares. “I was ashamed, for example, to go to the doctors. I would wait for all patients to come out, and then go in, even if I had an emergency.” Until then, Vasile confesses, he had known nothing about the situation of person with disabilities and thought of social projects, as well as NGOs, as “humanitarian aid”. He remembers that when he arrived at the first training organized by the “Motivation” Association in 2014, he said to himself: “I go to the workshop because they have invited me, and after that I will mind my own business, there is nothing I can do anyway”. But it was not so. Thanks to mentors and training, Vasile's attitude changed significantly, and because he also had a car adapted to his needs, opportunities for civic engagement emerged. In 2016 he got involved in the first project: he monitored accessibility of polling stations. Now civic activism has become his motivation, while engaging in projects provides him a source of income.He also participated as a councilor on the Carnateni local council list, but chose to change things at the district level, not just in his community. Since 2021, he has been the deputy chairman of the District Participation Council. In the 2018 elections, for example, he monitored accessibility of all polling stations in the district, and now he can be proud that dozens of institutions have become accessible thanks to the projects he has brought for his district.“Now the building of the district council is also in the process of renovation, it will have an adapted elevator and a ramp. It is a great success and an example for the whole country”, says Vasile enthusiastically.At home, Vasile does everything. Together with his parents, he has four hectares of land, vineyard, birds and animals. Most of all he likes working in the vineyard. Regarding the reasons why persons with disabilities are less involved in the decision-making process, Vasile considers that, on the one hand, they face physical barriers when moving around, thus they are always put in the situation to “disturb” someone, and, on the other hand, they do not show interest, expect financial compensation, or remain indifferent. “I think I know everything about accessibility, and I would like other people in my situation to know at least ten percent of that. It would be a big achievement. I know it is hard to mobilize persons with disabilities, but if you make one step outside your courtyard, seek your rights, discover your passions, you can really achieve a lot, first of all for yourself, but also for other persons with disabilities. I have to confess, the main reason why I have decided to share my story is precisely this: to encourage involvement and reduce indifference”. states Vasile.***This story is part of the UN Moldova awareness raising campaign ”Stand for Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities – No One Must Be Left Behind." An initiative that is part of the UN ongoing efforts to promote the inclusive and meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in all their diversity in decision-making processes at all levels. The story was developed with the financial support of the UN Human Rights Moldova within the project "Paradigm Shift to Disability Inclusive Services, Accountability and Governance in Moldova", implemented by UN Human Rights Moldova, UNDP Moldova, and UNICEF Moldova funded by to the United Nations Partnership for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD). The views expressed in the paper do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the UN Human Rights or the UNPRPD.
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Story
23 September 2024
The School of Ștefănel
Every day, Aliona and Ștefănel wake up at 7:00 to make it to class by 8:30. The walk to school takes just a few minutes. Ștefănel rides his electric "motorbike”, as he likes to call it, while Aliona hurries to catch up. The boy wishes she would ride with him, so that she can also feel the cool September air in her hair. “I don't fit. I’m fine walking," she reassures him. A field of tiny freckles spreads across her face, the same freckles that Ștefănel inherited from her. The fragile childAfter moving into his wheelchair, which he steers easily, Ștefănel enters the classroom while Aliona stays in the hallway. She clutches a bag of diapers and wet wipes to her chest and sits down on a worn leather bench. That's where she'll be waiting for Ștefănel at every break.Aliona Russu is from Soroca. For the past three years, she has been the personal assistant to her son, Ștefănel. "I was his mom until he turned seven. I looked after him 24/7. Since he started school, my job has a new name—personal assistant”, she says with a smile. She looks like a wrestler dressed in mom clothes. She never gave up on her baby, who, from his first hours of life, was deemed "far too fragile" and given little chance of survival. 14 Surgeries in 10 YearsȘtefănel was born with severe health problems. That was also when the fight for his life began, turning the hospital into "home." One month and three weeks after his birth, he had his first surgery. Then 13 others followed. "By the time he was five, he had already undergone ten surgeries”, his mother explains.Hydrocephalus, spina bifida, hip dysplasia—these are just a few of the conditions Aliona Russu lists. These conditions prevent him from walking on his own, from knowing when he needs to use the toilet, and from experiencing intense emotions—whether too happy or too sad—since they could trigger an epileptic seizure. That's why the child always needs his mother by his side.His "motorbike," an electric wheelchair bought with money raised by parents, students, and teachers at a charity fair where students sold their toys, makes it easier for him to get to school. It is parked under the stairs. Wheelchair at the Back of the ClassroomȘtefănel is in the fourth grade but follows a second-grade curriculum. Otherwise, it would be difficult for him to keep up with his peers. The left-hand side of the board displays equations for Ștefănel to solve, while the right-hand side shows equations for the others. With his wheelchair parked at the back of the classroom, it's hard to tell which student has special needs.The teacher calls him to the blackboard, and a classmate helps bring his wheelchair closer. With one swift move, Ștefănel gets into it. He maneuvers between the tables and heads towards the blackboard. His face lighting up as he gives the correct answer without needing help from his classmates, who are always ready to whisper it to him. "At the beginning, it wasn’t like this... We worked hard for these results”, explains Cristina Nitrean, a primary school teacher at Petru Rareș High School in Soroca. According to data from the Republican Centre for Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance, in 2022, out of the 460,835 children enrolled in kindergartens and schools in the Republic of Moldova, 11,766 were children with special educational needs. However, out of the 10,628 children with disabilities, only 5,753 were included in pre-school and school institutions.The Government aims for children with disabilities to make up 5% of the total number in pre-school education, 3% in technical vocational education, and 2% in higher education by 2027.
Three years ago, Cristina was informed by the school administration that she would have a child with special needs in her class. "I started crying. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to cope. How could I give him the attention he needed when I had 24 other students?" she wondered. “He needed to be integrated into society”At the first parent-teacher meeting, Aliona brought Ștefănel with her. "He seemed so small and gentle. I suddenly fell in love with him," admits the teacher. Ștefănel was a shy child, exhausted from his treatments and long hospital stays. The only people he tried to talk to in structured sentences were the nurses. "You could tell he needed to be integrated into society," says Cristina Nitrean.She discussed the situation with the parents of the other students so they could talk to their children. "And that’s how it all started. The children accepted him easily. There were less pleasant moments, like when they laughed because he had to wear diapers. But with patience and explanations, we got through it. I told them: everyone has their own needs. Some can’t do without sweets, others are very attached to their parents. Ștefănel needs to wear diapers so he can live and participate in society, and we need to accept and support him”, recalls the teacher. Since then, the children have tried to help their classmate whenever they see he’s struggling with an obstacle or problem. To make things easier for Ștefănel’s mother, the class moved from the second floor to the first. "We liked it better on the second floor, but the parents explained that Ștefănel’s mother couldn’t carry him up all those stairs, so we accepted," the students explain, talking over each other, their voices echoing through the school hallway. When heroes feel they can no longer go on...When Ștefănel misses school, his classmates and teacher call him on Viber during breaks. "It’s as if Ștefănel is abroad... beyond the borders of Soroca (she laughs). I love that we do this because I’m sure it benefits the whole class. These children will grow up to be people who accept others in need of help”, emphasizes Cristina Nitrean. After a short pause, the teacher starts laughing. "We also call him His Highness Stephen the Great. He’s a hero to the whole class," she says.But even heroes sometimes feel like they can no longer go on. It’s becoming harder for Ștefănel to spend hours at his desk. His back throbs with a pain that rings in his ears. Doctors have advised his parents to stop sending him to school. "It’s too much for him!". But the boy wants to go to school. "I feel good here. I feel happy here. These are my friends, and I like learning with them”, he admits, laughing loudly as his friends gather around to lift his wheelchair, carrying him the ten steps to the cafeteria and then to the gym. “The School Helps Him Spread His Wings"“Besides coping with pain, he is a realistic child. He knows that after this year, his school schedule will change. He’ll only attend a few days a week, and the rest of the time, he’ll study at home," says his mother.While Ștefănel’s classmates attend their English lesson, he works with his support teacher, Maia Jardan. The specialist has been working with children with special needs at the high school since 2015. Currently, there are 32 such students at the school. "We focus on exercises that are more challenging for them, according to the teachers’ observations," explains Maia. On the table, she has prepared several sheets with texts for Ștefănel to read. He likes Romanian lessons less. His letters are grouped into syllables, and he tries not to lose them before forming a word. His teacher, glasses perched on the tip of her nose and hair slightly disheveled, smiles and promises him a reward at the end of the lesson. "We just have to try. Come on, you can do it!" she encourages him. The boy straightens his back and focuses intently on the sentences.Aliona Russu continues to wait for him on the same bench in the school hallway. It gives him the independence he can manage. "I want him to learn to cope and become a strong person," she says. When he feels discouraged, thinking his illnesses will prevent him from being like other children, his mom shows him videos of adults in wheelchairs playing soccer, breakdancing, and proving that "it can be done!"."School is where he spreads his wings and dares to dream. That’s why I want him to come as often as possible," admits Ștefănel’s mother. The bell rings, signaling the start of another lesson.UNICEF, together with the Ministry of Education and Research and the Republican Centre for Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance, has launched a national campaign to change society’s attitude towards children with disabilities and special educational needs. The campaign promotes inclusive education under the slogan "Learning Together."
Three years ago, Cristina was informed by the school administration that she would have a child with special needs in her class. "I started crying. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to cope. How could I give him the attention he needed when I had 24 other students?" she wondered. “He needed to be integrated into society”At the first parent-teacher meeting, Aliona brought Ștefănel with her. "He seemed so small and gentle. I suddenly fell in love with him," admits the teacher. Ștefănel was a shy child, exhausted from his treatments and long hospital stays. The only people he tried to talk to in structured sentences were the nurses. "You could tell he needed to be integrated into society," says Cristina Nitrean.She discussed the situation with the parents of the other students so they could talk to their children. "And that’s how it all started. The children accepted him easily. There were less pleasant moments, like when they laughed because he had to wear diapers. But with patience and explanations, we got through it. I told them: everyone has their own needs. Some can’t do without sweets, others are very attached to their parents. Ștefănel needs to wear diapers so he can live and participate in society, and we need to accept and support him”, recalls the teacher. Since then, the children have tried to help their classmate whenever they see he’s struggling with an obstacle or problem. To make things easier for Ștefănel’s mother, the class moved from the second floor to the first. "We liked it better on the second floor, but the parents explained that Ștefănel’s mother couldn’t carry him up all those stairs, so we accepted," the students explain, talking over each other, their voices echoing through the school hallway. When heroes feel they can no longer go on...When Ștefănel misses school, his classmates and teacher call him on Viber during breaks. "It’s as if Ștefănel is abroad... beyond the borders of Soroca (she laughs). I love that we do this because I’m sure it benefits the whole class. These children will grow up to be people who accept others in need of help”, emphasizes Cristina Nitrean. After a short pause, the teacher starts laughing. "We also call him His Highness Stephen the Great. He’s a hero to the whole class," she says.But even heroes sometimes feel like they can no longer go on. It’s becoming harder for Ștefănel to spend hours at his desk. His back throbs with a pain that rings in his ears. Doctors have advised his parents to stop sending him to school. "It’s too much for him!". But the boy wants to go to school. "I feel good here. I feel happy here. These are my friends, and I like learning with them”, he admits, laughing loudly as his friends gather around to lift his wheelchair, carrying him the ten steps to the cafeteria and then to the gym. “The School Helps Him Spread His Wings"“Besides coping with pain, he is a realistic child. He knows that after this year, his school schedule will change. He’ll only attend a few days a week, and the rest of the time, he’ll study at home," says his mother.While Ștefănel’s classmates attend their English lesson, he works with his support teacher, Maia Jardan. The specialist has been working with children with special needs at the high school since 2015. Currently, there are 32 such students at the school. "We focus on exercises that are more challenging for them, according to the teachers’ observations," explains Maia. On the table, she has prepared several sheets with texts for Ștefănel to read. He likes Romanian lessons less. His letters are grouped into syllables, and he tries not to lose them before forming a word. His teacher, glasses perched on the tip of her nose and hair slightly disheveled, smiles and promises him a reward at the end of the lesson. "We just have to try. Come on, you can do it!" she encourages him. The boy straightens his back and focuses intently on the sentences.Aliona Russu continues to wait for him on the same bench in the school hallway. It gives him the independence he can manage. "I want him to learn to cope and become a strong person," she says. When he feels discouraged, thinking his illnesses will prevent him from being like other children, his mom shows him videos of adults in wheelchairs playing soccer, breakdancing, and proving that "it can be done!"."School is where he spreads his wings and dares to dream. That’s why I want him to come as often as possible," admits Ștefănel’s mother. The bell rings, signaling the start of another lesson.UNICEF, together with the Ministry of Education and Research and the Republican Centre for Psycho-Pedagogical Assistance, has launched a national campaign to change society’s attitude towards children with disabilities and special educational needs. The campaign promotes inclusive education under the slogan "Learning Together."
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Story
23 September 2024
Small business goes green and creates jobs in rural Moldova
After decades of working abroad, Anatolie Peancovschi managed to start a car wash using an environment-friendly technology in his home village in the Republic of Moldova. Thanks to ILO support, he was able to expand his small business now employing four local people previously without jobs.The first wave of labour migrants from Moldova began in the early 1990s, driven by their aspirations for better work and a higher quality of life for themselves and their families. Consequently, Anatolie Peancovschi, from Grigorauca, a small Moldovan village, first migrated to Russia, then to Italy and Switzerland. He was a young man of only 21 years when left Moldova. Over the next 25 years, he moved back and forth, always hoping to return home for good. Anatolie had a dream of starting his own business in Moldova and growing old with his wife, close to his sons. Now at last, Anatolie is back home. With the state support he has received he managed to become an entrepreneur. The training and assistance provided by the ILO enabled him not only to expand the business now employing four local people, but also empower his community, and at the same time protect Moldova’s natural resources. Over 350,000 Moldovans have left the country during the last decade due to outmigration. One in three households has at least one family member abroad, exacerbating the country’s brain drain and labour shortages, with children left behind, as well as many empty communities. Family reunification outside of Moldova has increased by 30 per cent in just a few years. Not many of those who left have decided to return—making Anatolie a notable exception. Not only was he reunited with this wife and his old mother, but he also fulfilled his dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Initially, he joined the public program “PARE 1+1”, designed to match public funds with resources of returned migrants seeking to start a business. “I am back home and happy where I am”, reveals Anatolie. “As a migrant, I worked in the construction sector, but car mechanics was always my hobby. In Switzerland I practiced it quite often and learned a lot”. Back to Moldova, Anatolie bought an old building in his village and launched the first entrepreneurial effort, a carwash, with support from “PARE 1+1”. The service became popular very quickly. “I was eager to expand my business and make it more eco-friendly, but I needed to learn how,” shares Anatolie. “One day, I discovered the partnership between the Organization for Small and Medium Enterprises (ODA) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) and their support for rural entrepreneurs. I applied to the programme and was soon enrolled.” The ILO project aimed to stimulate the green economy in Moldova and create more and better jobs. Among other initiatives, the ILO supported ODA and five local Business Incubators in launching the 'Support to Green Grants Challenge' initiative. Over two hundred rural entrepreneurs were trained and coached in green business practices through the ILO's Start and Improve Your Business (SIYB) training programme. Half of these entrepreneurs were selected to access financing and be supported in developing business plans, 50 new green start-ups received development assistance, and five SMEs were assisted with equipment that is environmentally friendly. Anatolie Peancovschi’s enterprise was one of them. “I received valuable training on how to improve my business and make it more eco-friendly,” recalls Anatolie. “I translated this knowledge into a business plan, which won the competition. I invested part of my €2,000 grant in purchasing a hydrocarbon separator. The separator retains petrol, fuel oil, oil, and lubricants before discharge into wastewater, ensuring the proper functioning of water treatment plants and preventing environmental damage—crucial for a car washing business. Additionally, I used some of the grant funds to modernize the equipment. Since 2023, our business volume has increased by 20 per cent, and it provides employment to four previously unemployed people from my village.” Recently, Anatolie entered an agreement with local public authorities to supply cleaned water for public works, including road construction. He is also in discussions with the local fire service to support them. This is all important given high risks of water scarcity in the future, resulting from climate change and frequent droughts in Moldova. Anatolie is living a big part of his dream now, but not all. He lives in his home country and has no plan to emigrate for work again. He runs his own business which also assists his community. But he misses his two sons, who followed their father’s path of emigration. Dan and Iulian are migrant workers in Switzerland now. They run their own business in the transport sector. “Iulian has always been in love with geography. As a child, he dreamed of becoming a geography teacher in the community school," says Anatolie. "I persuaded him to study economics instead. However, after graduating abroad, he switched universities and followed his true passion—studying geography. I am not happy with my sons living abroad. My wife and I miss our little granddaughter who was recently born. I set an example for them returning home. I see our future together, we could develop a family business, set up additional services related to car maintenance, reparation, etc.” Anatolie is very optimistic about the future. Recently, something happened that boosted his hope that Iulian and Dan will soon return to Moldova—they bought a big house in Grigorauca to settle in when they come back for good. The boys share their father's dream of starting a family business together. Iulian’s is also thinking about how to fulfil his dream of imparting his love for geography to local children.
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Press Release
23 October 2024
International Investor Connect Forum Showcases Innovative Energy Efficiency Solutions for Buildings
The event convened over 200 participants, including high-level policymakers from the Republic of Moldova, international organizations, financial institutions, industry leaders, researchers, and representatives from the construction sector across Moldova and the European Union. The forum provided a valuable platform for discussing and advancing energy efficiency policies, technologies, funding opportunities and practices that drive energy efficiency in buildings. The forum provided a solid platform for presenting the latest innovative solutions and discussing funding sources for the modernization of buildings in the residential and public sectors. In his speech, Prime Minister Dorin Recean emphasized the importance of investments and legislative reforms in the energy transformation of the Republic of Moldova. "Energy is going through a significant transformation. We understand how essential it is to our lives and are committed to guiding this change in a way that creates opportunities for the private sector. The government adopts legislation in line with EU regulations, thus unifying market rules. The Republic of Moldova is an attractive place for investments, especially now, being part of ENTSO-E, which integrates us both technically and commercially into the European network", said Dorin Recean.Representing 50% of total consumption, the building sector is the largest energy consumer in the Republic of Moldova. Due to low efficiency, about a quarter of this energy is lost. Investments in this area will bring direct benefits to citizens, by reducing bills and increasing thermal comfort. In this context, the Minister of Energy, Victor Parlicov, pointed out that the energy efficiency of buildings can generate a major economic impact. "The market of energy efficiency services in [the Republic of] Moldova can attract investments of one billion EURO in the following years. The implementation of energy efficiency measures not only reduce energy bills and increase the comfort of citizens, but also have a positive effect on the economy. This is an opportunity for growth for companies in the field of construction and for the labor market in the Republic of Moldova", emphasized the Minister of Energy. The "Investor Connect 2024" forum gave participants the opportunity to discuss the latest trends and innovative solutions in the energy efficiency field. Additionally, the event served as a foundation for new collaborations between investors, companies and public authorities, with the aim of supporting the transition to a more sustainable energy system. "We are committed to rehabilitating over half a million square meters in the coming years," said Ion Muntean, director of the National Center for Sustainable Energy, emphasizing that the institutions are prepared to ensure the implementation of these ambitious projects. "We plan to invest 1.4 billion lei in the residential sector through the Fund for Energy Efficiency in the Residential Sector, and the success of this endeavor depends on partnerships with the private sector", added Ion Muntean.The forum was organized by the National Center for Sustainable Energy within the GCIP Moldova project, which is part of the UNIDO Global Cleantech Innovation Programme (GCIP), supported by the Global Environment Facility and the Green Climate Fund. The institutional support was provided from the Ministry of Energy of the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with the European Union, UNDP, GIZ and USAID. For further information about UNIDO’s work in the Republic of Moldova, please contact:Dona ScolaNational Project Coordinator, UNIDOd.scola@unido.org Olga RatajAssociate Industrial Development Officer, GCIP Programme Lead, UNIDOo.rataj@unido.org
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Press Release
21 October 2024
Fostering Inclusion: UN Moldova campaign to advocate for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes
The campaign aims to address the significant barriers that persons with disabilities face in Moldova when participating in all spheres of public and social life. As of early 2023, 162.3 thousand persons with disabilities, representing 6.5% of the total population, are registered in Moldova. Despite this, their involvement in public life remains notably low. The data shows that persons with disabilities, especially women and youth, are significantly underrepresented in political and social activities. Nearly 50% of women with disabilities are unaware of opportunities for participation in public life, and only 2.4% of youth with disabilities are involved in voluntary political activities. Recent findings also reveal that women with disabilities, particularly those from rural areas, face heightened risks of violence, poverty, and social exclusion, with nearly 70% having never participated in policy or legislative development. According to national data collected by the Office of the People's Advocate during the 2023 general local elections, only 28 persons with disabilities from 13 territorial-administrative units ran for office, highlighting the low integration of persons with disabilities into the community and limited enjoyment of their right to vote and be elected.This stark underrepresentation calls for targeted efforts to increase participation of persons with disabilities at all levels of governance.“The full and effective participation of persons with disabilities is not only a right but also a fundamental principle of good governance. Their opinions and involvement are essential to creating inclusive, equitable, and resilient societies,” said Yesim Oruc, Resident Coordinator of UN Moldova “This campaign is designed to transform the decision-making processes by advocating for inclusive measures and accessible environments that empower all individuals to participate in decision-making processes on equal terms. By ensuring that the opinion of persons with disabilities matters in the decision-making process, we are not only respecting their human rights but also enriching our communities with their diverse perspectives shaping the sustainable future of Moldova.”The campaign seeks to address the numerous barriers persons with disabilities face in Moldova, from limited accessibility in public spaces to lack of representation in political and social institutions. According to most recent evaluations, about 70% of polling stations and other public institutions in Moldova remain inaccessible to persons with disabilities. The lack of accessibility severely limits the possibilities of persons with disabilities to engage in civic life and exercise their rights to education, employment, and independent living and other human rights.The campaign’s core message emphasizes the critical importance of ensuring that persons with disabilities are meaningfully included in decision-making at all levels and their opinions are taken into consideration: “The opinion of persons with disabilities matters. Taking decisions together.”True inclusion is more than a symbolic representation. It requires fostering an environment in which persons with disabilities can fully engage, ensuring their perspectives are taken into consideration, and their contributions are reflected in decisions affecting all aspects of their social, political, economic and cultural life including policies, regulations and standards.The campaign aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, United Nations Disability Inclusion Strategy and the UN Moldova Cooperation Framework for Sustainable Development 2023-2027, all of them aiming to promote transparent and sustainable governance that leaves no one behind. It also resonates with the core principle of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which Moldova ratified in 2010. The United Nations in Moldova invites all individuals, public authorities, private businesses and civil society to join the campaign and take concrete actions to eliminate barriers that limit participation of persons with disabilities. Together, we can ensure that every person in Moldova including persons with disabilities, has the opportunity to participate fully in shaping the decisions that affect their lives and communities.*** Useful information for persons with disabilities can be found on www.informat.md
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Press Release
17 October 2024
Fair Work Practices Discussed at a Round Table Dedicated to the International Decent Work Day
On the occasion of the International of Decent Work Day 7th October, the National Confederation of Trade Unions of Moldova (CNSM) organized a round table dedicated to discussing fair work practices and workers' rights in the Republic of Moldova. The event brought together experts, government officials, employers' associations, and development partners. It was organized with the support of the project "Inclusive and Productive Employment in Moldova" implemented by the International Labor Organization (ILO) and financed by the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).The roundtable provided a platform for discussions aimed at highlighting successful initiatives and addressing current challenges in the labour market, with a special focus on ensuring decent wages and fair work conditions underlining the idea of justice, fairness and compliance with legal and moral standards in the field of work.The participants discussed the recent developments related to national and international labour policies, confirming their commitments to support Moldova's efforts to align with European standards.For Moldova, wages are at the heart of decent work. Starting in 2022, at the request of the Unions, Moldova adopted legislative changes to establish a unified national minimum wage in accordance with the Labor Code and Law no. 847/2002. The minimum wage represents the lowest remuneration set by the Government for unskilled work.To address poverty and social inclusion, CNSM advocates that it should reach at least 50% of the average wage by January 2027.Moldova's commitment to the international standards is stated in the ratification of ILO’s Minimum Wage Convention (C.131) and the European Social Charter.. The National Action Plan for Moldova's accession to the European Union (2024–2027) prioritizes the transposition of the EU Directive 2022/2041 on minimum wages by September 2025, thus contributing to the consolidation of wage fairness and social protection.The participants of the event, including the representatives of national institutions, trade unions, employers' associations and international organizations highlighted the importance of a coordinated response to the challenges of the labour market. The discussions focused on the protection of workers' rights and the provision of fair employment opportunities.Promoting inclusive and productive employment is a priority of the ILO in its collaboration with the Republic of Moldova aimed to develop the labour market and improve the work conditions, according to the objectives of the Decent Work Country Program for 2021-2024.For more information, please contact: Violeta Vrabie, ILO project coordinator Phone: + (373) 78 11 33 90; e-mail: vrabie@ilo.org
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Press Release
09 October 2024
The People of Moldova Receive an Honourable Mention for Remarkable Humanitarian Efforts in the 2024 UNHCR Nansen Refugee Award
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 125,000 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.” 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 AwardNamed 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 MoldovaUNHCR 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
For queries, please contact:
Monica Vazquez
vazquezm@unhcr.org
UNHCR External Relations Officer
Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
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.” 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 AwardNamed 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 MoldovaUNHCR 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
For queries, please contact:
Monica Vazquez
vazquezm@unhcr.org
UNHCR External Relations Officer
Chisinau, Republic of Moldova
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Press Release
07 October 2024
The Seventh Local Employment Partnership was Launched in Floresti Moldova
During the four months, the discussions supported by the ILO project held between the local authorities, unions and employers resulted with the formulation of seven crucial Actions related to the implementation of LEP and economic development of Floresti district. These Actions will produce several outcomes, including the following:Setting up over 290 jobs in various domains.Initiation of about 26 start-ups in income-generating sectors such as handicrafts, beekeeping and agriculture.Formalization and expansion of 49 small enterprises.The creation of a cooperative on growing vegetables, packaging and manufacturing of associated products.Assisting 350 inactive persons by registering them with the local employment agency and offering them professional formation services and programs.It is estimated that approximately 1,100 persons from Floresti district, as well as the persons at the risk of social exclusion, will directly benefit from the opportunities offered by the LEP, and approximately 2,000 people will benefit indirectly. An important aspect of the initiative is the collaboration with LEAR Corporation, through which, in partnership with the Florești Territorial Employment Subdivisions, we aim to identify up to 200 individuals from socially vulnerable groups by mid-next year who are interested in employment. Additionally, the collaboration with the Florești Vocational School will allow the adjustment of training programs to better meet the needs of the labor market.The implementation of Floresti LEP involves the participation of about 15 public and private partners, at the national and local level, i.e. civil society organizations, educational and professional formation institutions, the local employment service, producers’ associations, enterprises and foreign investors activating in Floresti district. The involved parties signed Implementation Agreements regarding the implementation of the corresponding seven Actions at the event of Florești LEP launching.The total budget for the implementation of this Partnership is $328,707.66, of which the ILO contributes with $ 220,983.76. The other local and national partners’ contribution is worth $107,723.90 to be added to the service lines aimed at business expansion, enterprise’ creation, vocational formation (VET) and implementation of on-the-job training programs. An important aspect of the initiative is the collaboration with the Florești Vocational School that will permit the adjustment of formation programs to better respond to the needs of the labour market.This is the seventh LEP implemented by the ILO in the Republic of Moldova, following those implemented in Cahul, Cantemir, Causeni, Soroca and Rezina districts. Another LEP is currently rolled out in Hincești district. Previous experiences have demonstrated the positive impact of these partnerships on the local economic environment and workforce skills qualification.The Local Employment Partnership (LEP) represents an innovation based on "negotiated planning" between the relevant local partners, assuming interconnected roles and responsibilities to develop and implement diverse solutions to respond to labour market challenges, adapted to local circumstances.For more details, please contact Violeta Vrabie, ILO project coordinator. Phone: + (373) 78 11 33 90; e-mail: vrabie@ilo.org
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