The complex management of cases and sustainable reintegration assistance are key activities in facilitating the inclusion of Roma communities into local society and ensuring their access to essential social and administrative services. This statement was made by Ester Ruiz de Azua, Head of the IOM Mission in Moldova, during a forum held in Chisinau, focused on European cooperation for Roma inclusion.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is participating in Roma Week for the third consecutive year. This year, the organization is focusing its efforts on Roma children's education and the social inclusion of Roma communities in the cities of Soroca, Otaci, and Edinet.

"IOM's work to ensure that Roma have equal access to social services is an ongoing effort," the organization stated in a press release.



The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Moldova took part in the first of two days of the international forum as an active member of the Roma Working Group.

The two-day event in Chisinau features roundtable discussions on topics such as "Engaging Civil Society and International Partners in Supporting and Integrating Roma and Strengthening Resilience to the Refugee Crisis" and "Social Cohesion and Community Development." The forum is organized with IOM’s support as part of an EU-funded project.

Over the past three years, IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) program has helped nearly 1,300 Roma individuals voluntarily return to Moldova and has successfully implemented over 200 reintegration grants. Additionally, the Mobile Protection Program has provided legal and social assistance to nearly 800 Roma individuals.