Essential Support for Donbas Refugees: Safe Space UNFPA’s Intervention in Moldova

The advance of Russian forces in the Donbas region, where they have captured the towns of Tsukuryne and Ostrovske, has further worsened the situation for civilians in the area. Numerous refugees have been forced to leave their homes, seeking shelter in neighboring countries. Among them is Ekaterina, a young mother from Donbas, who, along with her two sons, arrived in Moldova after spending a week in the basement of their home to protect themselves from the bombings.

UNFPA, through the Safe Space Homecare Office, has stepped in to provide essential psychological support for refugees arriving in Moldova. At a critical moment for Ekaterina’s family, the support from the psychologist at the community center located at Gheorghe Cașu 32 played a vital role in helping the young mother manage her trauma and anxiety. She was able to find the inner strength needed to cope with the uncertainty regarding her husband, who remains in the conflict zone, and to provide her children with the emotional stability they needed.

Psychological support is indispensable for refugee families who have suffered losses and trauma. Many, like Ekaterina, have expressed their gratitude for this assistance, which has provided them with a safe and welcoming space where they could share their fears and doubts. The importance of such support is even greater considering that many refugees are dealing with deep psychological trauma, and access to specialized services represents a vital chance for healing.

This activity is part of the program “Improving Access to Essential Health Services and Gender-Based Violence Protection for Refugees from Ukraine and Host Communities,” supported by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA Moldova) in the Republic of Moldova and funded by the European Union.

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