Three years ago, the war in Ukraine forced millions of people to leave their homes. More than 1 million people crossed the border into the Republic of Moldova, and over 120,000 found a home here, the majority being women with children, exposed to an increased risk of gender-based violence.

In a time of uncertainty and hardship, UNFPA Moldova stood by them, providing immediate assistance through Safe Spaces for women and girls.

To respond to this crisis, UNFPA Moldova, together with its partners, established a network of 31 static and mobile Safe Spaces across the country. Since 2022, these centers have become pillars of safety and dignity for more than 110,000 refugee and local women, offering them protection and psychological and social support -both individually and in groups, tailored to their specific needs.

The need for safety, protection, and support for women and girls to live free from violence and abuse remains as urgent as ever. To highlight the importance of support services in crisis situations and the impact of Safe Spaces, UNFPA brought together key partners at a reflection event, including government representatives, international organizations, donors, civil society, and women who have benefited from Safe Space support.

"Safe Spaces are not just shelters; they are places where women and girls regain hope and confidence. Here, they find light at the end of the tunnel, protection, and support to continue their lives with dignity. Through the assistance provided by UNFPA and the generous support of our partners and implementing organizations, we can reach the most vulnerable people, offering them essential services and a real chance at a safer future," said Dr. A. Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Moldova Representative.

"I have had the opportunity to visit several UNFPA-supported Safe Spaces in Moldova. During these visits, I met and spoke with many women and girls. Their stories of leaving their homes because of the war are experiences no one should have to endure. While they have tried to adapt to life in Moldova, they told me that they found support, guidance, and an understanding community more easily thanks to Safe Spaces. Women and girls have been able to access information about all available services, especially those who have suffered from gender-based violence," stated Fern Horine, the British Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.

During the dialogue, concrete results of Safe Spaces in strengthening the resilience of refugee and local women and girls were presented, offering perspectives from women who sought help and from key stakeholders to better understand the real needs of refugees. Lessons learned were also shared, and opportunities for strengthening future support were identified.

"For us, protecting women and girls is not just a social issue—it is a moral obligation and a commitment that reflects our maturity as a society ready to join the larger EU family. We must act as a coordinated team, swiftly and effectively, so that all women feel protected, supported, and free to build a safe future," emphasized Felicia Bechtoldt, State Secretary at the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.

Since the beginning of the war, UNFPA Safe Spaces have become a vital source of support. Over 110,785 women, girls, young people, and elderly persons have received essential services for the prevention and response to gender-based violence. At the same time, 43,800 refugee and local community women have received personalized psychosocial support, and 62,000 people have participated in group activities, fostering solidarity and emotional resilience.

"From the very first day I took refuge in Moldova, I turned to a Safe Space—a warm place in a cold and uncertain time. At first, we were afraid to open up, but over time, the support we received gave us confidence. Now, when the mobile Safe Space team visits us, we greet each other with hugs," said Marina Velicsar, a refugee from Ukraine.

Additionally, 35,000 people have participated in awareness-raising sessions on gender-based violence, contributing to greater awareness and prevention of this issue. Moreover, 32,447 women and girls have been connected to life-saving protection services, ensuring their safety and well-being.

"For three years, Safe Spaces have been a symbol of solidarity and hope for refugee women and girls, as well as for the host community. A.O. Artemida is honored to be part of this initiative, providing essential support to those in greatest need. We thank UNFPA and all partners for their unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of every woman," said Ina Grădinaru, Deputy Director of A.O. Artemida, during the event.

These efforts have a lasting impact, changing lives one person at a time.

UNFPA expresses its gratitude to all its partners:

Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Denmark, the European Union, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, the Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America.

About Safe Spaces for Women and Girls

The "Safe Spaces for Women and Girls" program is part of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) humanitarian response for the prevention of gender-based violence.

Across the Republic of Moldova, 31 Safe Spaces for Women and Girls—both static and mobile—are operating, providing essential support for refugee and local women and girls. These centers offer protection services, psychosocial support, and non-formal educational and vocational group activities, with a focus on recreation, information, and social cohesion.

All services provided at the Safe Spaces for Women and Girls are free, confidential, and accessible on a voluntary basis.