THANK YOU, MOLDOVA: World Refugee Day 2024

The event, themed “Thank You, Moldova,” took place at Digital Park in Chișinău. It highlighted good practices, and experiences from various actors involved in the refugee response. Importantly, it honored the Moldovan people and the courage of refugees who have found safety and community in Moldova. Bringing together government structures,  non-governmental organizations, international and national organisations, private sector, ambassadors, media representatives, refugees, and individuals interested in refugee issues, the event fostered a dialogue on refugee support.  

The event featured three panel discussions. The first panel, “Beyond borders: the first days,” reflected on the initial months of the refugee response, focusing on how access to territory and essential services was ensured. The second panel, “Unlocking potential: commitment to inclusion,” addressed the inclusion of refugees in schools, workplaces, healthcare systems, and communities. The third panel, “From strangers to neighbors: strengthening social cohesion,” shared community experiences, highlighting the inclusion process and its impact on daily life.  

Yulia Zenchenko, Head of Female Support Force and representative of the refugee community, expressed heartfelt gratitude: “This awful war made me leave my home, but it also introduced me to Moldova and its people. What we found here gave us hope and made us feel warm and welcome. On behalf of the refugee community, I want to say that we are opening our hearts to you as well.”  

Alexei Buzu, Minister of Labour and Social Protection, shared: “During a recent visit to Kyiv, I spent nights in bomb shelters due to air raids. I couldn’t stop thinking about my colleagues in Ukraine working under such conditions, worrying about their families. This reinforced my belief that we must cherish our peace and remember that it is thanks to Ukraine. We can reciprocate by working for refugees, integrating them into our society, and ensuring they feel welcome.”  

The event also honored outstanding journalistic coverage of refugee issues, emphasizing the importance media in raising awareness about social issues. Out of 29 submissions, three finalists were recognized: Tatiana Beghiu from Moldova.org for “Bohodara wants to go home,” Alina Mikhalkina from Newsmaker.md for “Running away from guns. How men who don’t want to fight get from Ukraine to Moldova,” and Eugenia Apostu from Radio Free Europe Moldova for “Ukrainian para powerlifting champion, refugee in Chișinău.”  

“Moldova has set an exemplary standard of solidarity with refugees. On World Refugee Day, we recognize the hospitality shown by the Moldovan people and the solidarity that allows refugees to live with dignity” commented Bertrand Blanc, UNHCR Representative a.i. in the Republic of Moldova. 

The event celebrated Moldova’s remarkable support for refugees and the resilience of the refugee community. Together, we envision a world where refugees are not only welcomed but are fully included in all aspects of life.