The Government of Japan announced a contribution of US$1,645,305 through the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The programme will contribute to enhancing the human security of Ukrainian refugees, third-country nationals fleeing the war in Ukraine, and their host communities in Moldova.

“About 1,200 refugees and 40,000 citizens involved in providing refugees with accommodation will benefit from assistance. The programme will also strengthen the capacity of the National Employment Agency so it can effectively support refugees who need assistance with employment,” mentioned Dorin Recean, Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova.

The programme, to be implemented over a period of one year, aims to advance the human security of people in Moldova, who are facing high vulnerability due to the war in Ukraine, through:

1. Improved access to a more adequate infrastructure and basic services provided, by using green, energy-efficient, and digital technologies.
2. Improved access for refugees, returning migrants and host community members, particularly women, older persons, and persons with disabilities, to livelihoods and employment opportunities, including in agriculture and food supply chains, that help them build self-reliance and live with dignity.
3. Ensured universal access to protection for refugees, and Moldovan communities, with special attention to women, children, older persons, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups. Provided support for survivors of gender-based violence and trafficking in persons.
4. Promotion of an inclusive, non-discriminatory, and peaceful environment where social cohesion, mutual trust and enhanced human security prevail.

“This partnership between Japan, UNDP, IOM and UNTFHS will contribute to addressing the increased vulnerabilities faced by refugees and host communities. It will support socio-economic integration of refugees and social cohesion in host communities, leading to improved living conditions for all,” said Asako Okai, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director, UNDP Crisis Bureau.

“We thank Moldova for showing exemplary kindness and responsibility as a member of the international community. Together with the Republic of Moldova, we stand shoulder to shoulder in defense of freedom, decency, and dignity, and in upholding the international order based on the rule of law,” said Yoichiro Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Moldova.

The programme, entitled “Promotion of human security of Ukrainian refugees, third-country nationals, and the host communities in Moldova through socio-economic empowerment and inclusion”, will foster social cohesion and resilience by applying the human security approach. This is expected to benefit 1200 refugees and 40,000 members of host communities. The initiative will also contribute to enhance the National Employment Agency capacities to effectively support refugees in need of assistance on their job-seeking journey. At least 50 private sector representatives will benefit from both capacity development activities and grant/support schemes.

Read the press-release in Japanese.