Refugees in Moldova

Overall objective

Existing surveys have found barriers to the socioeconomic inclusion of refugees, including access to jobs or education. These are essential starting points, which this activity will further analyze and build on. The socioeconomic assessment aims to gather detailed information on the use of, and barriers to accessing, different public services, the extent of economic and social inclusion, and social cohesion. The outputs will inform policy and program development and financial recommendations to support government and other stakeholders, including development actors.

Activity description

The study will conduct a comprehensive quantitative assessment based on a sample-based household survey, backed by qualitative research and informed by innovative data sources.

The following steps are envisaged:

1. Conduct survey with refugees and host community members
2. Process data and conduct data analysis
3. Develop analytical products such as position papers around key findings, analysis/integration processes report, thematic factsheets, etc. and disseminate results.

Engagement with partners

An advisory group of key stakeholders, including JDC, UNDP, The World Bank, National Bureau of Statistics Moldova, and other UN agencies will guide methodology and implementation, and will contribute to the joint analysis and interpretation of findings.

Background and Context

Moldova experienced one of the largest per capita influx of refugees in Europe since the war in Ukraine began in February 2022. More than 100,000 refugees were estimated to be in Moldova in February 2023, comprising around 4 percent of the population. Along with other European countries, Molodova activated temporary protection status for those fleeing the war in Ukraine in March 2023. Most refugees are either single-headed households (usually women), older people, people with disabilities and minority groups such as Roma.

Although inflation remains high and the war has created severe supply chain disruptions which increased the strain on the economy. Yet the Moldovan government has actively engaged in the refugee response, and Moldovans have welcomed refugees into their homes and provided support. However, given that recent studies have revealed emerging tensions, a an evidence-based understanding of social cohesion and the barriers to accessing services is needed to improve socioeconomic inclusion of refugees.