Achieving Resilience Through Employment and Social Cohesion

In the face of unprecedented challenges brought by the Ukrainian crisis, Moldova has become a beacon of resilience, showcasing the power of employment and social cohesion. The project "Achieving Resilience Through Employment and Social Cohesion," spearheaded by Helvetas Moldova in partnership with HEKS/EPER Moldova and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), demonstrates how strategic collaboration and innovative solutions can address socio-economic vulnerabilities. With the financial backing of the Swiss Government and strategic support from the National Employment Agency (NEA), this initiative runs from July 2023 to June 2025.

Building Bridges of Support

The project tackles two critical outcomes:

1. Strengthening NEA Capacities
   NEA’s subdivisions in regions such as Chisinau, Ialoveni, and Soroca now coordinate more effectively, offering tailored services to refugees and vulnerable Moldovans. Over 200 NEA employees have received training in employment law, effective communication, and service delivery strategies. These efforts aim to ensure that refugees and locals alike can access meaningful employment opportunities seamlessly.
2. Fostering Socio-Economic Inclusion
   Vulnerable groups, including Ukrainian refugees, benefit from a wide array of interventions. More than 4,000 individuals have better access to income-generating opportunities through job fairs and training programs in areas like agriculture, IT, and start-up entrepreneurship. Additionally, expanded childcare services in 19 kindergartens have provided essential support to over 3,000 children, including those with special educational needs.

Innovative Solutions for a Better Tomorrow

The project stands out for its holistic approach:

• Training and Grants: Participants gain essential skills through training programs, complemented by grants that empower women entrepreneurs and support sustainable farming initiatives.
• Social Cohesion: Through art therapy, sporting events, and interethnic festivals, the initiative fosters a culture of inclusion and mutual respect.
• Awareness Campaigns: Creative outreach using billboards, media, and social platforms has reached over 9 million individuals, ensuring broad awareness of NEA services.

Challenges and the Path Forward

Despite its successes, the project has encountered challenges, including limited training resources and reluctance among beneficiaries to provide identification. Moving forward, efforts will focus on enhancing stakeholder coordination, scaling up services in new regions, and addressing psycho-social needs more comprehensively.

A Vision of Resilience

This project embodies a commitment to empower individuals and communities, ensuring no one is left behind. As Moldova continues to build a foundation of resilience, the project's lessons and successes serve as a model for other nations navigating crises.

Looking Ahead: Plans for 2025

As the project enters its second phase in 2025, the focus will shift to scaling up impact through the following activities:

• Enhanced Referral Mechanisms: Development and implementation of referral tools via the angajat.md platform to connect beneficiaries to employment opportunities.
• Strengthened Coordination: Establishment of local employment-support platforms to improve stakeholder collaboration and resource allocation.
• Skill Development: Specialized training in IT and agriculture, as well as Romanian language courses, will be offered to beneficiaries to meet labor market demands.
• Promoting Entrepreneurship: A dedicated program will provide 45 beneficiaries with business training and offer 30 start-up grants to stimulate local entrepreneurship.
• Childcare Expansion: Services in five childcare institutions on the left bank of the Nistru River will be scaled up to support vulnerable families.
• Psycho-Social and Legal Support: New services, including psycho-social assistance and legal aid, will address the evolving needs of refugees and Moldovans.

Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities and create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

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The ”Achieving Resilience through Employment and Social Cohesion” project is implemented by Helvetas, HEKS/EPER Moldova, and NRC, with the support of the Swiss Government, and in partnership with the National Employment Agency.