Representatives of civil society organizations received “European Awards for Civil Society - Stronger Communities”. A second event of the kind was organized within the framework of the information campaign “EU-Moldova: Together for a stronger society”, dedicated to the civil society organizations, which have managed by their activity to create stronger local communities, IPN reports.
Thereby, Stronger Society Award went to “Femeia și Copilul – Protecție și Sprijin” Association of Criuleni (“Woman and Child – Protection and Support”), Stronger Economy Award to the Business Support Center of Orhei, while the Award for the Promotion of Gender Equality to “Casa Speranțelor” Association” of Soroca (“House of hope”).
The event was attended by the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Peter Michalko, as well as, virtually, by the Ambassadors of the EU member states.
“Certainly, the civil society organizations play a key role in the development of the society, ranging from fundamental human rights, inclusion of people with special needs, equal opportunities, to the economic development, opening of new jobs and helping to improve the legislative framework. In this regard, the European Union will continue to support civil society organizations in the Republic of Moldova, for the benefit of the people from the entire country, because we are stronger together,” stated Peter Michalko.
In the Republic of Moldova, the European Union currently supports 28 large projects implemented by civil society organizations, in the total amount of €22 million, which is 5% of the total volume of EU assistance to the Republic of Moldova. Due to these projects, more than 1 000 vulnerable people benefit from 42 social services available to them in different localities. In addition, more than 800 vulnerable people enjoy free services and products generated by more than 15 social enterprises (including six that are established on the left bank of Nistru river), which have created 59 jobs for disadvantaged people. At the same time, more than 70 small businesses started by young people were financed, which generated 84 jobs. The initiatives have enabled these people to improve their quality of life and a better inclusion into their communities.
