The Embassy of the United States of America expresses deep concern over the decree issued by the self-proclaimed authorities in the Transnistrian region of Moldova prohibiting non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from receiving funds from external sources and placing other restrictions on the ability to create and operate NGOs, according to a press release of the diplomatic mission. NGOs are a vital part of civil society. The work performed by NGOs provides direct benefits to the population served and often addresses needs that other bodies are unable to meet. Funding from foreign sources, including from the United States, has allowed NGOs in Transnistria to provide humanitarian assistance to the poor, elderly and disabled and to orphans; to operate summer camps for children; to fight trafficking in persons; to offer free legal counselling and business advisory services; and to provide improved access to information. “We regret that the measures imposed by the authorities in Tiraspol, if enforced, will deny the people of the Transnistria region access to this important source of assistance.” The United States has proudly supported many NGOs around the world and will continue to do so in our commitment to helping the development of civil society, it noted. „The decree issued by the self-proclaimed Transnistrian authorities violates European and international norms and harms the people of the region. We call on the self-proclaimed Transnistrian authorities to reconsider and rescind this decree and to take steps to facilitate, rather than hinder, the vital work of NGOs,” the embassy added.