Ukrainian refugees in the Republic of Moldova should not be seen as a burden but as a potential economic asset. Seventy-five percent of them hold higher education degrees and have relevant work experience, making them an immense resource that can be utilized for the benefit of society and the country. This statement was made by Iulia Zincenko, Co-Executive Director of the organization Female Support Force, during the public debate: "A Small Country with a Big Heart. How Has the Situation of Ukrainian Refugees in the Republic of Moldova Changed in 2.5 Years?" organized by IPN News Agency.
Iulia Zincenko shared her personal experience as a refugee. Initially, she stayed with a family she had never met before arriving in Moldova, living with them for about four months. She began volunteering, later founding an initiative group that became a registered non-governmental organization.
In her view, the notion of "refugee" has evolved significantly and no longer carries negative connotations. Today, it is associated with people fleeing war. The Female Support Force, registered over a year ago, was established in response to the hidden challenges faced by refugees.
“It’s very difficult to understand the specifics of a refugee’s life without having been one yourself”, said Zincenko. She emphasized that refugee issues should not be resolved on their behalf but in collaboration with them - a principle her organization upholds.
Zincenko expressed gratitude to the Moldovan people, describing Moldova as truly "a small country with a big heart". For her, Moldova is no longer just a place on the map; it is the family that hosted her, the Romanian language teacher who guided her, and the organizations that provided her with a warm coat, a blanket, or a pot to cook in. To refugees, Moldova has a human face.
She noted that the challenges refugees face have changed over time. While some issues have diminished, new ones have arisen. For instance, around 10,000 Ukrainians have obtained either residence permits or Moldovan citizenship. In some cases, they are more vulnerable than those under temporary protection. For example, Ukrainians with temporary protection benefit from extended legal stays for vehicles with Ukrainian plates, whereas those with residence permits or citizenship risk fines of up to 75,000 lei for exceeding stay limits. Zincenko sees this as an inequity.
Another issue involves vehicle technical inspections, which are not mandatory in Ukraine. Refugees crossing the border are now warned that starting January 1, vehicles without technical inspections may incur fines. To address this, she suggested opening inspection centers specifically for cars with Ukrainian plates.
Through her organization, Zincenko aims to amplify the voices of refugees. She stressed the importance of involving refugees in discussions about their stay in Moldova.
The public debate, "A Small Country with a Big Heart. How Has the Situation of Ukrainian Refugees in the Republic of Moldova Changed in 2.5 Years?" is part of the project "IPN News Agency for Social Cohesion and Pro-European Moldova", funded by IMS.
