122 young people from both sides of the Nistru River participated in three editions of the Summer Camp for Social Cohesion, held between 7 July and 1 August 2025. The events were organized as part of the "Enhancing social cohesion in Moldova through dialogue and community empowerment" project, funded by Switzerland and implemented by UNDP and UNFPA.

The camps provided young people with a safe and inclusive space for learning, dialogue, and collaboration. Participants explored topics such as identity, human rights, civic engagement, and learned how to work together. Through interactive methods, such as simulation games and creative workshops - empathy, listening, and understanding diversity were emphasized.

On one of the camp days, a total of 60 older people joined the young people during the three editions, bringing valuable perspectives and contributing to intergenerational dialogue. The young people learned how to express their ideas, collaborate, and build projects with community impact. Together, they made "friendship bracelets" that reflected the spirit of cooperation and solidarity between generations.

"The atmosphere was very pleasant and I really liked the fact that there were young people of different ages here. I felt more comfortable than anywhere else in the world. I learned to communicate without words. For me, social cohesion means bringing people together, regardless of ethnicity, color, language, nationality, or other factors. What I liked most was the openness of those around me - everyone was different, with a special energy," said Tatiana Bursuc, 20 years old, from the village of Lazo, Ștefan Vodă district.

"People get closer to each other, even if they have different personalities. I was particularly impressed by the connection between young and old. It is a pleasure to listen to how they express themselves, how they think – they are erudite, much more open than we were 50-60 years ago. I never thought that at my age I would have such a communicative experience in such a warm atmosphere. I did not expect that, in such a group, I would gradually come to understand what social cohesion really means. I enjoyed it immensely. It was wonderful," said Vasile Ungureanu, 74 years old, from Cahul.

On the last day of the camp, participants analyzed their role in promoting social inclusion and cohesion. The closing ceremony marked not only the end of the camp, but also the beginning of a community that shares the same values.
Previously, as part of the same project, UNDP organized three editions of the Youth Dialogue for Social Cohesion, attended by 140 young people from both sides of the Nistru River. For three days, the young people participated in activities to learn about and explore the concepts of power, conflict, and mediation. 

In the coming period, young people will be able to participate in thematic forums, mentoring programs, and training sessions in the field of mediation. All of these will provide new opportunities for civic engagement.