Moldova has received invaluable support from the Council of Europe in bolstering its protection of the human rights of refugees and migrants. A particular focus has been placed on the most vulnerable, including women and children displaced by the devastating conflict in Ukraine. This crucial aid was underscored at the international conference “Protecting the Human Rights of Displaced Persons: Current Challenges and Ways Forward,” held in Chișinău.
In his opening remarks, Adrian Efros, Moldova’s Minister of Internal Affairs, stressed the magnitude of the challenge. “Over 1.2 million Ukrainian citizens have crossed our borders, with more than 100,000 choosing to make Moldova their new home. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding human rights and providing support to all in need,” he stated. “We will continue to build an inclusive legal framework, ensure access to essential services, and integrate refugees into our economic and social fabric. The Council of Europe and our international partners have been indispensable allies, and together, we can forge a brighter future for those seeking refuge within our borders.”
Representing the Lithuanian Presidency of the Committee of Ministers, Tadas Valionis, the Lithuanian Ambassador to Moldova, praised the country’s extraordinary solidarity with those fleeing the war. “Moldova has provided shelter, support, and safe passage to countless individuals,” he acknowledged. “Holding perpetrators accountable for these violations is paramount and requires our collective vigilance. Lithuania remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine and believes intensified pressure on Russia is crucial to ensuring accountability for its actions and paving the way for a just and enduring peace in Ukraine and across Europe.”
David Best, the Special Representative of the Secretary General on Migration and Refugees (SRSG), highlighted the ongoing project, “Strengthening the Human Rights Protection of Refugees and Migrants in the Republic of Moldova.” This project, he explained, “leverages the robust body of Council of Europe standards, particularly the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights and promising practices in the field.” It empowers national authorities and other stakeholders to meet the needs of refugees and migrants while building resilient and sustainable migration, asylum, and reception systems.
The project has also significantly bolstered the capabilities of professionals across various sectors—social protection, health, education, and law enforcement—who are directly involved in supporting displaced populations. This has taken the form of specialized training, the development of essential support services, and the provision of critical information to those in need.
The conference convened representatives from Moldovan state institutions, other Council of Europe member states, diplomatic missions, international organizations, civil society activists, and experts dedicated to this critical field. Through collaborative discussion, they examined the project’s successes and explored avenues for future collaboration in strengthening Moldova’s migration and asylum systems.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Human Rights Expert:
Editor: Welcome, everyone. Today, we’re diving into a pressing topic: the support for refugees and migrants in Moldova, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. I’m here with Dr. Elena Mihailova, a renowned expert in human rights and migration issues. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Mihailova.
Dr. Mihailova: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time to discuss these issues, especially with the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in the region.
Editor: Absolutely. Recently, Moldova has received significant backing from the Council of Europe. Can you elaborate on the importance of this support for Moldova and its refugees?
Dr. Mihailova: The Council of Europe’s support is invaluable. It not only provides financial aid but also critical expertise in crafting inclusive legal frameworks. This ensures that refugees and migrants receive the protection they deserve. Moldova’s efforts to safeguard human rights for these individuals, especially women and children, are commendable and represent a model for other nations facing similar challenges.
Editor: Indeed. Adrian Efros, Moldova’s Minister of Internal Affairs, mentioned that over 1.2 million Ukrainian citizens crossed into Moldova, with 100,000 choosing to stay. What does this influx mean for Moldova’s social and economic systems?
Dr. Mihailova: This demographic shift poses both challenges and opportunities. The integration of a large number of refugees can strain resources and services, but it also offers Moldova a chance to rejuvenate its economy. By fostering an inclusive approach and ensuring access to employment, education, and healthcare, Moldova can not only support refugees but also enhance its own socio-economic fabric.
Editor: That’s an interesting perspective. Tadas Valionis, the Lithuanian Ambassador to Moldova, highlighted the importance of accountability for human rights violations. How essential is it for countries like Moldova and their partners to address these issues?
Dr. Mihailova: It’s crucial. Holding perpetrators accountable creates a deterrent effect and helps build trust in the legal system. It also aligns with international human rights standards. For Moldova, collaborating with international partners to ensure accountability can strengthen its position as a leader in humanitarian efforts, furthering solidarity with Ukraine and reinforcing its commitment to human rights.
Editor: How can Moldova effectively navigate the balance between accommodating refugees and ensuring national security?
Dr. Mihailova: It’s all about adopting a comprehensive approach. Safety and security are paramount, but this should not come at the expense of human rights. Implementing robust screening processes while also fostering an atmosphere of inclusion and support for refugees is essential. Education and community engagement play significant roles in mitigating potential tensions and promoting coexistence.
Editor: As the situation evolves, what should the international community do to support Moldova’s efforts?
Dr. Mihailova: Continued support is vital. This includes not just funding, but also sharing best practices, training for local officials, and creating channels for dialogue among displaced populations and host communities. The international community must also advocate for policies that ensure the protection of human rights while addressing the pressures faced by Moldova.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mihailova, for sharing these insightful perspectives. It’s evident that Moldova’s response to the refugee crisis highlights both the challenges and the potential for positive change through humanitarian efforts.
Dr. Mihailova: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we keep this conversation going as we work towards effective solutions for all those affected by this crisis.
Editor: Absolutely. And thank you to our audience for tuning in. Let’s continue to stay informed and engaged on these critical issues.