Press Release

The Republic of Moldova leads the 2023 Global Refugee Forum with nine pledges, focusing on refugee inclusion, child rights, gender equality, education, and ending statelessness.

19 December 2023

  • 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 24th 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

Source: UNHCR webpage

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