Following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces in February 2022, Moldova has experienced an unprecedented influx of refugees seeking safety and shelter. As one of Ukraine’s immediate neighbors, Moldova has become a critical transit and host country for those fleeing the conflict. Despite being one of Europe’s most economically challenged countries, Moldova’s government responded in solidarity to the humanitarian situation.

The refugee crisis has placed immense pressure on Moldova’s infrastructure and resources. The country has faced significant challenges in providing adequate housing, healthcare, and social services to the incoming refugees. Many of the displaced individuals arriving in Moldova are women, children, and the elderly, who require specialized support and care. As of June 2024, over 1,092,546 people have fled the war in Ukraine and crossed into the Republic of Moldova. Some 120,548 individuals remain in the country, according to UNHCR, and it hosts one of the highest number of refugees per capita.

In Moldova, around 95 per cent of refugees are living among host communities. The Roma community has also been impacted by the war in Ukraine and is among the most vulnerable groups in Moldova. Refugees report relying mainly on personal savings and pensions, humanitarian assistance, and informal social protection mechanisms such as remittances.

Since February 2022, displaced people – including Ukrainians, non-Ukrainian spouses, and some third-country nationals – have been welcomed into Moldova and allowed to live and work there under an ongoing “state of emergency”. As of 1 March 2023, Moldova is implementing a temporary protection mechanism which will offer people the opportunity to register for legal stay and access basic services.