Chisinau, December 9 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Republic of Moldova, in collaboration with the General Inspectorate for Migration (GIM), organized a symbolic run at Valea Morilor park in Chisinau to mark the start of International Migrants Day celebrations in Moldova. The event brought together over 120 participants, including migrants playing in Moldovan football clubs, IOM and GIM staff, and representatives of Moldovan NGOs.

Held under this year’s theme of the international migrants Day, “Every step”, the event aimed at raising awareness about migration, promoting unity and inclusion within the community, as well as advocating for migrants’ rights. Together, one step at a time, we can move towards a world where we fully protect human rights and safety of migrants, and where everyone has a better chance to flourish.

“Every step we take is a step towards further strengthening our long-standing relations and joint work with the Moldovan authorities. Every step is a step towards listening more closely to vulnerable migrants and their needs. Every step is a step towards creating a cohesive Moldovan society for the benefit of all, both Moldovans and migrants. What IOM does is possible thanks to trust international donors community”, said Ester Ruiz de Azua, IOM Moldova’s Chief of Mission.

“Migrants Day is about unity and solidarity. The General Inspectorate for Migration believes that every action counts: involvement of state authorities and cooperation with civil society, migrants' contribution to the socio-economic development of the country, promoting social integration, and joint efforts will also contribute to the process of European integration”, said Tatiana Ciumas, Interim Deputy Head of GIM.

Two more runs will be organized in Balti and Cahul, on December 13 and 14. 

On 4 December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly, taking into account the large and increasing number of migrants in the world, proclaimed 18 December International Migrants Day. 

In 2001, one year after the official proclamation of International Migrants Day, the International Organization for Migration opened its first office in the Republic of Moldova. For over two decades, IOM has been the leading international agency working closely with the Government of the Republic of Moldova to support migrants and Moldovans in situations of vulnerability. 

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For more information, please contact:

Riccardo Severi, Communications and Public Information Officer, IOM Moldova rseveri@iom.int