Chisinau, 8 May, 2025 - Starting today, the Constructorul Rehabilitation Center and Refugee Accommodation Centre, which serves migrants, refugees and the local community, has an elevator and accessibility ramp to facilitate access for persons with disabilities, the elderly, and families with young children. The renovation of the building was made possible through a project implemented by the International Organization for Migration in the Republic of Moldova, generously funded by the People from Japan.

The handover ceremony was held at the renovated building in the presence of the Director of the Agency of Public Property, Roman Cojuhari, the Director of the Rehabilitation Center/RAC Constructorul, Ludmila David, the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Moldova, H.E. Yamada Yoichiro, and the IOM Moldova’s Chief of Mission, Ester Ruiz de Azua.

Mentioning that this Rehabilitation Center also works as a refugee accommodation center, after Russia’s invasion against Ukraine forced many to flee the country, the Ambassador from Japan said that “the Embassy of Japan is proud to be part of a project that prioritizes inclusivity, ensuring that everyone regardless of ability has equal access to the space they need.”

“The elevator and ramp will improve the safety and ease of daily movements, foster autonomy and reduce dependence on others, as well as promote inclusion and participation in community life for all residents, migrants, refugees and Moldovans. This IOM project, coordinated with Moldovan authorities, represents a further tangible expression of the international solidarity from the Government and the people of Japan,” said the Chief of Mission of IOM Moldova.

“This renovation and reconstruction work was an important step toward ensuring equal opportunity and access for all beneficiaries of health and rehabilitation services, including refugees from Ukraine. For us, these facilities are more than just buildings; they embody the respect that each person has for others,” said the Director of the Rehabilitation Center/RAC Constructorul.

The event was complemented by a workshop on Ikebana, the traditional Japanese flower arrangement, organized by the IOM Mental Health and Psychosocial Support team to promote cultural exchange, well-being, and social cohesion, and a planting tree activity, symbolizing Japan's solidarity and support for both Ukrainian refugees and the local community.

World Health Assembly Resolution 76.6/2023 reiterated that rehabilitation is an essential health service in emergencies. Inability to access or delayed access to rehabilitation services can have serious consequences for patients, leading to secondary complications and preventable disability. Conversely, with timely access to quality rehabilitation services, it is possible to reduce the length of hospital stay, prevent complications, optimize the individual's independence, improve participation in community life, as well as reduce public cost.

***

For more information, please contact:

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