Moldova
©Yoshifumi Kawabata
Map & Basic Information
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Area
33,843 square kilometers
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Population
2.60 million (2021: Moldovan National Statistics Office. Excluding residents of the Transnistria region)
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Capital
Chisinau
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Ethnicity
Moldovan (Romanian) (75.1%), Ukrainian (6.6%), Russian (4.1%), Gagauz (Turkish) (4.6%), etc. (2014: Moldova Census)
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Language
The official language is Moldovan (Romanian). Russian is also commonly spoken.
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Religion
Christianity (Orthodox), etc.
Issues to be addressed
In February 2022, Russian forces launched a military invasion of Ukraine, prompting over 500,000 refugees to flee to Moldova. While the majority have since moved on to seek refuge in other countries, many have remained in Moldova due to economic and other reasons. Most of the refugees are women and children, as in principle men are prohibited from leaving Ukraine. The large influx has placed a significant burden on Moldova, a country with a small population and a comparatively weaker economy than other European nations.
Activities
Operation of Community Centers
AAR established a community center where refugees and local residents can interact, and operates it together with local partner organizations. Social workers are stationed at the center to provide ongoing individualized support by listening carefully to the needs of refugee families who have recently arrived, single parents with many children, and people with disabilities or chronic illnesses. The center also serves as a "place of rest" for both refugees and local residents.
Major Activities in Past
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2022 - 2023
Distribution of food and daily necessities
Hot meals and foodstuffs are provided at several shelters in and around the capital city. We also distribute home appliances such as washing machines and refrigerators, furniture, and daily necessities.
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2022 - 2023
Psychosocial Support
AAR has provided a safe place and playground for mothers and children fleeing the ravages of war, with the aim of providing them with psychological care.