Svitlana: A New Beginning in Moldova

This is the story of Svitlana, a 48-year-old woman from Dvorikna, Kharkiv region, Ukraine. The war took away her peace and security, forcing her to seek refuge and stability in the peaceful surroundings of Moldova.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, Svitlana has tried multiple times to return to Ukraine, hoping to reconnect with her roots and the life she was forced to abandon. However, each attempt was short-lived, as fear for her own life and the lack of safety drove her to seek refuge elsewhere. After several attempts, she chose to settle in Moldova, where she found peace and hope for a new beginning.

For almost a year now, Moldova has become her home. Svitlana has registered under the temporary protection program, benefiting from all the rights granted to refugees. This includes access to housing, social and medical assistance, as well as education for her 15-year-old daughter. Although adapting to a new country is challenging, Svitlana is trying to find a job, supported by specialists at the railway station who provided her with information about employment opportunities.

Aware of the trauma that the war has left in her heart, Svitlana is receiving psychological counseling sessions offered at the Safe Spaces at the station. These sessions provide essential support for her, offering encouragement and care whenever she feels the need. Her daughter also receives support, including vouchers for personal hygiene products, which are a necessity for any teenager’s dignity.

An important aspect of their integration into Moldova is being informed and educated about gender-based violence. Svitlana and her daughter were educated on what gender-based violence is, how it manifests, and where to seek help if needed. This education is vital for their protection and safety, giving them the knowledge to recognize and avoid such situations.

This activity is part of the program “Improving access to essential health services and protection against gender-based violence for refugees from Ukraine and those in 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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