The UN in Moldova Magazine (Issue No. 2, 2017)

UN

IN MOLDOVA

THE REPUBLIC OF MOLDOVA CELEBRATED THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF JOINING THE UN May 2017, #4

MORE INCLUSIVE SCHOOLS FOR MOLDOVAN CHILDREN page 18

MIGRANTS, NATIVE FROM 23 COMMUNITIES CONTRIBUTED WITH 2 MILLION LEI TO LOCAL DEVELOPMENT page 26 MAY 2017

Photo: UNICEF

UN Magazine | 1

Summary UN Resident Coordinator

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More inclusive schools for Moldovan children

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The Republic of Moldova celebrated the 25th anniversary of joining the UN

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49 new biomass heating systems will be installed from the European funds

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Moldova’s innovative experience in eliminating violence against women was presented at Oxford University

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“For me, the IT world was a revelation”

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Putting people first

23

Migration issues discussed at the International Scientific Conference held in Tiraspol

24

Migrants, native from 23 communities contributed with 2 million lei to local development

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Women from vulnerable groups demand a better life

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Let’s talk about depression on the occasion of the World Health Day

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On the occasion of Zero Discrimination Day, the UN launches an external elevator to make its premises accessible to all visitors The Cultural Centre from Dorotcaia village attracts talents from both banks of the Nistru River

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Different languages, equal rights: minority youth of Moldova stand up for their rights and solidarity

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Moldova reported to the UN on how the rights of persons with disabilities are respected

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Zero Discrimination Campaign

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Cervical cancer can be prevented

16

Roma children from Cioresti village benefit from a child-centered education approach at school

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Magazine: UN in Moldova The United Nations in Moldova May 2017 Magazine Nr. 4 "The UN in Moldova" is a quarterly magazine published by the United Nations in Moldova, 131, 31 August 1989 St., Chisinau, MD 2012, Moldova, tel.: (373-22) 22 00 45, fax: (373-22) 22 00 41; www.un.md, www.magazine.un.md

The articles in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the United Nations or any of its Agencies. Articles may be freely reproduced for non commercial purposes, provided the source is acknowledged.

Cover: UN Moldova / Circulation: 100 copies If you want to receive a printed copy, write a message to moldova@one.un.org

Dear readers,

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s I am writing these lines the process of developing the 2018-2022 Republic of Moldova-United Nations Partnership Framework for Sustainable Development (PFSD) has just been finalized. The document was signed by the Government and the UN on 16 May 2017.

The PFSD is a strategic programmatic framework that will guide the development efforts of the UN in Moldova in the coming five years and will support the fulfilment of the country's aspirations for building a modern and prosperous state. The framework was elaborated through a broad-based consultative process and with the active participation of Government counterparts, civil society representatives, members of marginalized and vulnerable groups, development partners and the private sector. The PFSD is fully aligned with national development priorities, the country’s regional commitments, the global Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

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The guiding principle “leave no-one behind” will underpin UN operation during the next programming period and will ensure that we reach out to all segments of society, particularly to those who are vulnerable, marginalized and most in need.

Moldova has made some progress towards advancing democracy, rule of law and good governance and establishing market economy.

owever, there are still formidable challenges ahead and the need for accelerating the implementation of the reform agenda and strengthening social inclusion and social cohesion is well recognized. It is therefore time to step up our efforts, reach out to those left behind and make sure they take full advantage and reap the benefits of sustainable development.

Moldova is celebrating 25 years as a UN Member State in 2017 and the PFSD is one of the many symbols of the strong, strategic and trustworthy partnership between the country and the UN. When Moldova joined the UN, it became part of a global family of nations that have decided to come together and seek common solutions to shared challenges. The UN is a unique forum where the Member States can discuss and find agreements on ways to tackle the most severe challenges facing humanity today: sustainable development, climate change, human rights, peace and security, and humanitarian emergencies. As a Member State, Moldova can influence the global agenda and decision-making across a wide range of fields. Throughout these 25 years, Moldova has also benefited from the UN’s development assistance in many different sectors: democratic governance, human rights, education, health, environment and more. At the same time, UN membership comes with several obligations, which stem from the UN Charter, for instance to respect and promote human rights. The UN is working together with the Government, civil society and other partners to assist the country and ensure it meets these obligations.

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oldova is playing an active role as a UN Member State and has contributed significantly toward the development of the Global Agenda 2030. For the second time, the country has been elected as a member of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), which is the UN’s central forum for sustainable development, and will serve on it for the period 2016-2018. This provides a golden opportunity to influence the global discourse while pursuing national priorities in the economic, social and environmental fields. Moldova has also been elected to the joint Executive Board of the UN Development Programme (UNDP), UN Population Fund (UNFPA), and the UN Office for Project Services (UNOPS) for the 2017-2019 term. This is yet another sign of the country’s substantive contribution to the global development agenda and its active role in the UN system.

DAFINA GERCHEVA UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in the Republic of Moldova

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The Republic of Moldova celebrated the 25th anniversary of joining the UN This year marks the 25th anniversary since the Republic of Moldova joined the most important international organization: The United Nations.

This event was celebrated on 2 March through a number of public events. The cooperation between Moldova and the UN was discussed at a press club, organized jointly by the UN, the Independent Journalism Center, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration, and the State Chancellery.

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N Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in the Republic of Moldova Dafina Gercheva noted that being a member of the UN is a mutual undertaking, which provides opportunities but also comes with obligations.

The Press Club also tackled the Global Agenda 2030 and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals

Dafina Gercheva, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Moldova

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The UN membership has given Moldova access to important global fora and influence over the global agenda across a wide range of fields. At the same time, as a Member State, Moldova must live up to the provisions of the UN Charter, for instance to respect and promote human rights. The UN is working together with the Government and other partners such as the civil society to assist the country and ensure it meets those obligations.

Over the past 25 years, the Republic of Moldova has also received development assistance from the UN in various fields: democratic governance, human rights, education, healthcare, environment – just to mention a few", DAFINA GERCHEVA stated at the press club.

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Journalists showed high interest in the results of Moldova-UN cooperation

Participants at the press club

The UN is the foundation of the multilateral cooperation system, a family of nations that have decided to search for joint solutions to common challenges. The UN is a forum, where the Member States can discuss and address the most serious challenges of humanity: sustainable development, human rights, peace and security, humanitarian emergencies etc.

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Lilian Darii, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration

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ccording to the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Lilian Darii, the UN membership contributed to full recognition of Moldova as an independent state. “On 2 March 1992, the Republic of Moldova officially entered the family of independent states, concluding a process of our statehood affirmation and becoming a state with full rights. The UN membership made it impossible for anyone to dispute the independence of our country”, the Deputy Minister declared.

Cristina Gangan, representative of the State Chancellery

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he State Chancellery was represented

by Cristina Gangan, who highlighted the strong and reliable partnership between the UN and the Republic of Moldova.

“Through the UN membership, our country has received advice and assistance for implementing a number of important reforms”, she said.

Results of UN - Republic of Moldova cooperation according to the Partnership Framework UN - Republic of Moldova "Towards Unity in Action" for 2013-2017.

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On the occasion of Zero Discrimination Day, the UN launches an external elevator to make its premises accessible to all visitors On 1 March 2017, the United Nations in the Republic of Moldova inaugurated an elevator that facilitates access to all four floors of its headquarters in Chisinau, located on 131, 31 August 1989 Street. Since 1994, the UN House hosts several agencies, funds and programs of the United Nations, the ground floor being accessible since 2004.

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ith the support of the UN headquarters in New York, in 2016-2017, an external elevator was built for the benefit of people with disabilities, as well as pregnant women, elderly people, and the staff periodically carrying heavy loads to different floors.

Participants at the elevator launching event.

Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

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A UN visitor testing the lift by going to another floor.

Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

Xenia Siminciuc, event moderator, and Dafina Gercheva, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative. Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

One of the objectives of this initiative is to spread the word and promote change beyond the UN. We want to walk the talk and lead by example so that other employers see the value of diversity and open up their organizations for all groups in the society, including the marginalized. We in the UN have learned tremendously from this initiative and one of the most important insights is that many changes do not require big budgets, but rather a change of attitude", says DAFINA GERCHEVA, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in the Republic of Moldova.

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he elevator buttons have Braille characters so that visually impaired people could use it. At the same time, the buttons have light and audio signalling devices.

The elevator is spacious to allow the access for a wheelchair user and an accompanying person. The cost of this pilot project amounts to over USD 85,000.

Building this elevator is part of a broader diversity initiative addressing intolerance and discrimination.

"

There is a need to invest and create comfortable conditions for all persons, without any discrimination.

Everything that is being refurbished is for the benefit of people. These conditions reflect the attitude that each person should have towards people with disabilities",

states GHEORGHE SURUCEANU, Director of Diplomatic Corps Service Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of the Republic of Moldova.

Visitors make a UN House tour with the elevator. Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

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o ensure accessibility for persons with visual impairments, a tactile pavement has been installed in the UN House, guiding the employees or visitors on the institution’s territory. So far, such throughout pavement has been placed just outside the building.

Tatiana Goras, Visiting the UN House.

Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

"

I took part in a testing exercise of the optimization works done at the UN House. For a person with low vision like me, it is very important to know that my opinion is considered. Now there are contrasts in place, bigger inscriptions, tactile paving and balustrades. This accessible space is an example for all public and private buildings in the country", mentions TATIANA GORAS.

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Moreover, the UN House has adapted the sanitary units/toilets. Furthermore, the tableware from the institution’s kitchen is brightly coloured to make it accessible for people with low vision.

N Participants at the elevator inauguration event. Photo: UN Moldova / Dinu Bubulici

ow, several public and private institutions have shown interest in learning more about this pilot project to optimize physical accessibility.

The UN intends to give priority to institutions that are accessible in its business relations.

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The Cultural Centre from Dorotcaia village attracts talents from both banks of the Nistru River

The coming of the spring was celebrated by the inhabitants of Dorotcaia village

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ver than 650 people, children and adults, from both banks of the Nistru River gathered at the beginning of March in Dorotcaia village to celebrate the arrival of spring. Exhibitions of Martisors, crafts and paintings, as well as a grand concert with participation of not only local artists, but also artists from Dubasari, Harmatca and Grigoriopol were

held inside the cultural facility, which from now on will gather the inhabitants of both banks of the Nistru River.

The Cultural facility, built almost 50 years ago, has been renovated with the financial support of the European Union through the Support to Confidence Building Measures Programme implemented by the UNDP.

The large hall of Dorotcaia Cultural Centre is always full of inhabitants of both banks of the Nistru River

Mayor of Dorotcaia village, Valeriu Berzan

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Dorotcaia is a village where young people from both banks of the Nistru River are raised and educated. Students from Grigoriopol attend “Stefan cel Mare� high school.

Also, they attend the Art School of the Cultural facility, and participate in dance and music interest groups, VALERIU BERZAN, the mayor of Dorotcaia

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MAY 2017

The joint performance of the children of Dorotcaia and Grigoriopol

Folk band "Haiducii"

Martisoare made by the students of "Stefan cel Mare and Sfant" High School from Grigoriopol, based in Dorotcaia

Dorotcaia is the village where culture is at home

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our bands were hos ted by the Dorotcaia Cultural facility: “Generation” fanfare orchestra, “Miracol” vocal instrumental band, “Nistrenii” folk band and “Doina Nistrului” folk music band.

A year ago, this building had a broken roof, old doors and windows, while engineering networks were on the blink.

From now on, over 300 children from

Elena Meleca, a popular craftsman from Cosnita, exhibited handmade glass articles

both Dorotcaia village and Grigoriopol attending art clubs, and those one thousand subscribers of the library hosted by the Cultural Centre, will enjoy European-standard conditions.

T The Cultural facility from Dorotcaia village was repaired for the first time in 50 years

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It is easy to get used to good things",

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a Dorotcaia inhabitant says.

he Dorotcaia Cultural facility is one of over 70 infrastructure facilities renovated with the financial support of the European Union through the Support to Confidence Building Measures Programme implemented by UNDP Moldova. The program helps to build confidence between the inhabitants from both banks of the Nistru River by involving the representatives of local authorities, business environment and civil society in joint projects on business development and social infrastructure improvement.

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Our European history teaches us that such places might become symbols of reconciliation and sources of inspiration.

Certain courage, goodwill, commitment of many people and as many contacts as possible are needed to build invisible bridges of trust. This event held in a symbolic place is a wonderful example of confidence-building process",

PIRKKA TAPIOLA, the Ambassador of the European Union in the Republic of Moldova mentioned.

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PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Different languages, equal rights: minority youth of Moldova stand up up for their rights and solidarity

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ver 130 people representing minorities, state authorities, civic activists, development partners, participated in the Youth Forum of national ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities organized by the Group of Youth for Interethnic Solidarity with the support of the UN Office for Human Rights in Moldova.

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This forum represents a platform for dialog established to draw the public's attention to the problems of minorities living in Moldova and to offer recommendations for their settlement.

Ivan, a student of Gagauzian origin, came to the capital city of Moldova from a village a day prior to the Forum.

He was afraid to be late and miss the opportunity to get all the information.

It is for the first time that he takes part in a human rights event focused exclusively on minority youth.

We chose the date of 21st of February for the Forum because it is the International Day of Mother Tongue",

- explained TAISIA KAMENSHIK, activist of Bulgarian origin who welcomed participants in the most spoken minority languages of the country: Russian, Ukrainian, Gagauzian, Bulgarian and Romani.

" Participant at the Youth Forum of national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities. Photo: OHCHR Moldova/2017

Being a person with severe disability and at the same time an ethnic and linguistic minority from a rural area in Moldova, it is almost impossible to grow professionally", - explains IVAN.

Young participants at the Forum demand their right to education and participation.

Photo: OHCHR Moldova / 2017 10 | UN Magazine

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t was the first experience of discussing minority issues through human rights perspective for many other participants as well.

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We are always asked to come to the public events in our traditional clothes for people just to take pictures with us and ask about our cuisine or traditions.

But you can`t tackle discrimination by discussing minority issues only through the lens of culture",

- says another participant CHARLES, activist of the African community of Moldova.

"

We, the minority youth are treated like those who have to tell poetries in their native languages and dance traditional dances.

But we are professionals and should be treated like equal partners",

- notes the director of the Association of Ukrainian youth of Moldova DMITRI LECARTSEV, making his speech at the Forum.

The Youth Forum of National, Ethnic, Linguistic and Religious Minorities was organized by minority youth and for minority youth in order to discuss two main issues: political and civic participation of minority youth and their right to qualitative education in mother tongue

PEACE, JUSTICE AND STRONG INSTITUTIONS

Young people of African origin, participants in the Forum. Photo: OHCHR Moldova / 2017

and in the state language. The Forum attracted attention of a record number of the media. It was followed online by more than 171,000 people and made some change their stereotypical perception of minorities.

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t the end of the Forum, the participants adopted a Resolution, through which they requested the authorities to fulfill the recommendations with emphasis on the right of minorities to high quality education and public and political participation. The Group of Youth for Interethnic Solidarity will monitor their practical implementation and their inclusion in the National Action Plan for Human Rights, which is now in process of drafting. “What you are planting now will bear fruit in the future”, concluded the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues Rita Izsák-Ndiaye in her video message to the participants of the Forum.

According to the population census, conducted in 2014, one fourth of the population is represented by numerous national, ethnic, religious and linguistic minorities.

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Before coming to the Forum I had never really talked to people belonging to minorities, I had only tried some of their food. I have always thought that they don`t want to learn the state language and cannot speak a word in official language. But after taking several interviews with some participants I changed my mind: they speak the state language despite lack of possibilities to learn it. Now I plan to visit some regions of Moldova populated by minorities and deepen my reporting on this issue",

- tells NATALIA, an online journalist who covered the event.

YOUTH FORUM OF NATIONAL, ETHNIC, RELIGIOUS AND LINGUISTIC MINORITIES

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Moldova reported to the UN on how the rights of persons with disabilities are respected

The UN Office for Human Rights has organised the direct broadcasting of the Geneva event.

Photo: OHCHR Moldova/2017

The UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities held its 17th session during 21-22 March in Geneva.

The Committee’s agenda also included a review of Moldova’s situation regarding safeguard for the rights of persons with disabilities.

T Moldova's review by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, live stream in Chisinau.

Photo: OHCHR Moldova / 2017 12 | UN Magazine

he Government of the Republic of Moldova presented to the UN Committee its report on the implementation of the provisions of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which had been ratified seven years ago. According to the official report, the Republic of Moldova has made certain progress referring mainly to the improvement of the legal frameMAY 2017

work and its alignment with international standards. These include: adoption of the Law on Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, the Law on Equality, the introduction of the “Personal Assistance�

Social Service, the establishment of the National Council for Determination of Disability and Working Capacity and others.

The UN Committee members appreciated these progresses, making at the same time several comments and raising questions regarding the report.

They were interested in the level of engagement of persons with disabilities in developing strategies and policies, in service and infrastructure accessibility, in fight against discrimination and stereotypes, in deinstitutionalization of children and persons with disabilities, as well as in the situation of girls and women with disabilities. The issues related to the legal capacity of persons with disabilities were also discussed.

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n the occasion of Moldova’s review by the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the UN Office for Human Rights in partnership with SOIR Moldova

Members of the UN Committee appreciated the progress, at the same time, submitting a series of comments and questions to the representatives of the Government. Photo: OHCHR Moldova / 2017

organized direct broadcasting of the Geneva review session in Chisinau.

The event was attended by about 100 persons, including authorities, persons with disabilities, professionals from var-

ious fields, civil society representatives, who discussed sexual and reproductive rights, right to work, accessibility, discrimination and obstacles to participation faced by persons with disabilities.

Disability is not a reason to be excluded from the decision-making process.

Photo: OHCHR Moldova/2017

About 187 thousand persons with disabilities live in the Republic of Moldova. According to the estimates, about 5 thousand persons with disabilities are deprived of their legal capacity, while 600 of them have been deprived of their legal capacity during 2012-2017, after the ratification of the Convention. Only 186 of over 2,000 persons with disabilities in residential institutions have been deinstitutionalized.

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Zero Discrimination Campaign

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NAIDS in partnership with “Positive Initiative�, a local NGO in Moldova, organized a series of awareness raising and informative events in several towns of the country.

The Zero Discrimination Day marked internationally on 1 March was also celebrated at the female penitentiary No.7 in Rusca.

During the campaign, Olia Tira, the new UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador in Moldova, participated in a series of meetings with HIV-positive women to discuss and better understand the problems they face at home, at work or in society.

Concert for the detainees at the Rusca penitentiary. Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

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ne of the promoted objectives relates to accelerating efforts on the elimination of HIV transmission from mother to child. The meetings were held at the Regional Social Centers in Chisinau, Tiraspol, Comrat and Balti.

Olia Tira, the new UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador in Moldova.

Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

"

Meetings with women living with HIV across the country have demonstrated to me that they are bright, beautiful and triumphant. These women have helped me to understand that the major problems they face are the discriminatory attitudes of their relatives and other people. My message is that despite of the HIV status, skin color or the social status, the most valuable is life in all its diversity",

OLIA TIRA, Goodwill Ambassador, UNAIDS Moldova.

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One of the series of events was a cooking master-class organized in a restaurant in Chisinau, during which HIV-positive women together with Olia Tira and other local show business stars, as well as representatives from

governmental structures and international organizations cooked together under the guidance of a well-skilled head cook.

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Not being discriminated is a right that must be respected, guaranteed for each person to enjoy!"

SVETLANA PLAMADEALA, Country Manager, UNAIDS Moldova, said.

Feelings through images. Photo: NGO Positive Initiative" MAY 2017

Women's messages against discrimination.

Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

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he last event organized within the campaign was held in Prison No. 7 in Rusca where inmates presented several artistic moments, after which they enjoyed a concert performed by Olia Tira.

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Certainly, meetings with women living with HIV are very important and necessary. All women, regardless of the HIV status, need to know they are loved, supported and that peers are not indifferent to their problems. Personally, I was very pleased to see women coming to these meetings thoughtful and concerned about their own problems, but coming out full of hope and positive emotions!"

said IRINA POVERGA, woman living with HIV, open status, head of department, NGO “Positive Initiative”.

Feelings through images.

Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

The UNAIDS Country Manager and the Goodwill Ambassador support the Global Anti-Discrimination Campaign.

Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

Sushi rolls making master-class.

Photo: NGO "Positive Initiative"

Zero discrimination is an integral part of the UNAIDS’ vision promoted also through the Zero Discrimination Day. This year, UNAIDS is calling for zero discrimination in health-care facilities. The right to health is a fundamental human right that includes access to affordable, timely and quality health services for all, yet discrimination is still widespread in health-care facilities, creating a serious barrier in accessing HIV services.

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Cervical cancer can be prevented Cervical cancer can be prevented. However, almost every day a woman is diagnosed with cervical cancer in Moldova, and every two days a woman dies from this disease.

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tilia, a 32-year old mother of two from Chisinau, has prevented cervical cancer due to timely performed cervical screening.

#Ok4Paptest social media campaign was launched in Moldova in January within the European Week of Cervical Cancer Prevention. Young volunteers informing about ways of cervical cancer prevention at the Institute of Mother and Child. Health The Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is organised in Moldova traditionally in the last week of January each year.

The doctors’ intervention and the treatment Otilia had followed helped her to avoid the disease and even get pregnant without any complications or other health problems.

Otilia visits her family doctor

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I decided to visit my family doctor for a routine check-up, just to make sure that everything was all right after the birth of my first child.

Following the doctors’ recommendations, I performed the cervical screening exam – the Papanicolaou medical test, which turned out indicating a risk for cervical cancer. My family doctor redirected me for further examinations and treatment. When I did the control test, it turned out satisfactory. I gave birth to my second child recently".

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t is a form of cancer which symptoms show at a later stage, and also it develops slowly. Thus, to prevent cancer for all women between the age of 25 and 61, it is important to perform a cervical screening once in every three years.

The screening is performed by the family doctor or the medical assistant and is free of charge.

A flash mob about cervical cancer prevention was organised by young volunteers during the European Week of Cervical Cancer Prevention at the Chisinau International Airport. The migrant women are the most affected by this disease in Moldova.

Rita Columbia, UNFPA Representative in Moldova

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In 80% cases, cervical cancer can be prevented through effective screening programme.

UNFPA works closely with the Ministry of Health of Moldova and partners to ensure that all women in Moldova have access to cervical screening services that comply with the European quality standards, as well as are well informed about how they can prevent cervical cancer", RITA COLUMBIA, UNFPA Representative

As a result of the joint efforts, the number of women who had undergone screening and prevented cervical cancer increased by 2,000 last year in Moldova.

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Roma children from Cioresti village benefit from a child-centered education approach at school Teachers from “Valeriu Dumbrava” gymnasium in Cioresti participated in a training on child-centered education concept and teaching tools. The training module was launched within the project “Promotion of increased participation of Roma children in education” implemented by the Resource Centre for Youth DACIA with the support of UNICEF Moldova. A total of 32 teachers honed their teaching skills to better respond to the development needs of the child.

“My name is Bianca Gligor and I like mathematics”. This is the opening to a lesson, where the focus of education shifts from simply pursuing general learning objectives to improving competencies, and where the student’s individual needs are emphasized.

Seated in a circle, an uncommon arrangement in Moldovan schools, students are encouraged for express themselves and show respect towards others.

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I would like all lessons to take place in the same way"

says BIANCA GLIGOR, 8th grade.

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he teachers were also impressed by the impact of the new approach. The educational tools they learned and practiced applying the project “Promotion of increased participation of Roma children in education” allowed bringing each child’s

potential to the forefront of the educational process.

Lidia Gulica teaches biology in both Cioresti and Vulcanesti gymnasiums. She says she tried several times to diversify her teaching methods to incite children’s interest in biology. The trainings held by Dacia Centre experts have helped her a lot.

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iorica Adascalita, expert in child psychology, says that the new methods provided teachers with a useful roadmap on how to ensure optimal development of intellectual and social competencies – the overall goal of the educational system today. ”I have invited the teachers to search for new ways of applying their vast professional knowledge. But this approach has been received differently by teachers.

Gotten used to classic methods of teaching, even the circular seating arrangement during lessons seemed strange to some of them.

We tried to spread the idea that seated in a circle, facing each other feels more confident and opens up children for discussion. ”Once the new teaching methods had taken root in the classroom, teachers began noticing the untapped learning potential in their students. And all that was needed to discover and engage these pupils was a change in the teaching approach”, said Viorica Adascalita.

In the framework of the “Promotion of increased participation of Roma children in education” project, over 70 children from Vulcanesti and Cioresti village benefit from educational assistance for all disciplines during after-school classes. The aim is to increase Roma children’s participation in quality education so that they can manage school workload and move successfully to the next stage of education.

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Some techniques presented during the training were familiar to me, some of them not.

Experience shows that learning through play is incredibly efficient. I have tried applying interactive teaching methods in my biology class. I was surprised to see my students so receptive and involved in the discussions. It made me understand better the children’s needs and behaviors.

Moreover, if until recently, I had to persuade children from the neighboring village, Vulcanesti, to come to classes, now, thanks to the new teaching methods, they are not likely to miss a day at school, something we find inspiring." underlined LIDIA GULICA.

Students from “Valeriu Dumbrava” gymnasium in Cioresti discuss a movie projected during a class.

Photo: UNICEF Moldova/2017 MAY 2017

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More inclusive schools for Moldovan children Children from the inclusive kindergarten nr. 12 in Balti enjoy exercise sessions tailored as play. Out of 120 children attending this kindergarden, 91 have visual impairments

choose specialized institutions, but their number is decreasing due to successful reforms“, Natalia Cechina added.

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In 2010, the Ministry of Education urged all schools to open their doors to children with disabilities. Today in mainstream schools across the country there are more than 10 thousand students with special educational needs, and their number increases every year. To support these children, about 500 inclusive education resource centers were opened, and more than 600 have been support teachers have been trained to assist teachers with inclusion of children with disabilities.

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na Focsa from Balti is a mother of two children. Ana has a son with a visual impairment, who attended a specialized kindergarten in the past. However, due to the implementation of the Program for Development of Inclusive Education, he was able to start his first school year at a mainstream school.

Since 2010, the number of children with special educational needs in regular educational institutions has increased.

Educational support services have been

"

I did not hesitate at all to enroll my son in a mainstream school. It would have been much harder, if I had decided as a mother, to isolate my child because of disability. He would have perceived himself as being different from the others, and that would have increased the gap between him and other children," ANA FOCSA added.

created at both district and local level. All districts have a Pedagogical Assistance Service and many schools have established resource centers for inclusive education with support teachers available.

“Children are no longer referred to specialized institutions,” says Natalia Cechina, Deputy Director of the Psycho-pedagogical Assistance Service in Balti.

“The attitudes of parents of children with special educational needs have changed as well. They value the right of their children to quality education and approach school managers asking for enrollment in mainstream schools.

Of course, there are still parents who

ccording to Liudmila Lefter, UNICEF Education Specialist, demand for inclusive education has increased.

There are, however, children with disabilities who have not yet benefited fully from the inclusive education opportunities.

There are children with severe disabilities and children with sensorial disabilities who are not attending school, being isolated from the community and their peers. An international consultant on inclusive education, Bertrame Tulk, was invited by UNICEF to assess the challenges of including these children in mainstream education in Moldova. The first documentation mission took place in January-February 2017. Accompanied by representatives of UNICEF, the Ministry of Education and the Republican Center for Psycho-pedagogical Assistance, the expert visited several institutions for children with severe disabilities and children with sensorial impairments in Balti, Cahul, Orhei, Hancesti and Ialoveni.

"

Since the beginning of the reform we have been promoting the idea that every child can learn. It is important that teachers and managers, parents and the community embrace this idea. In this respect, the consultant will help us develop a guidelines so that the process of inclusion of children with severe disabilities and of children with sensorial disabilities in mainstream schools is achieved in a relatively short time, learning from the experience of Canada and other countries",

said UNICEF Education Specialist, LIUDMILA LEFTER.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Moldova ratified in 1993, guarantees the same rights to all children, including those with disabilities. Moldova has also ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and in 2011 the Government adopted the National Program for the development of inclusive education for 2011-2020.

18 | UN Magazine

MAY 2017

49 new biomass heating systems will be installed from the European funds

Patients and healthcare staff from the Causeni District Hospital have hot water from solar energy

49 new biomass heating systems, including 20 solar collectors, will be installed in 2017 using the European funds from Energy and Biomass Project. Also, 27 kindergartens - beneficiaries of the first phase of the project - will be equipped with solar water heaters that will operate in conjunction with the biomass heating system.

These are the key plans for 2017 of the Energy and Biomass Project.

A system for remote monitoring of the operation of biomass heating plants, beneficiaries of the Energy and Biomass Project, will be launched in 2017. This year, the Training Centre for Biomass Boilers Operators started providing training courses. Feasibility studies will be conducted in two districts (Rezina and Cimislia) selected as pilot sites for biofuel production from vegetable waste and, depending on the findings, the first municipal projects for use vegetable waste use for energy purposes will be launched.

2017

is the year of the Energy and Biomass Project implementation. Launched in 2011, the project has gone through two stages of implementation thanks to the funds offered by the European Union. The project has succeeded to connect more than 190 schools, kindergartens, community centres, hospitals to biomass heating systems, thus ensuring access of a total number of over 140,000 people to safe energy produced in the Republic of Moldova. The Energy and Biomass Project laid the foundation for the bioenergy sector development in the Republic of Moldova, six years ago, at the starting line.

The number of institutions consuming bioenergy has led to an increase in the number of companies in briquette and pellet production sector, their total number being estimated at 100. 30 new companies in the bioenergy sector were set up due to the attractive leasing mechanisms developed by the

Over 156,000 people, mostly children, benefit from safe energy produced in Moldova

Energy and Biomass Project, using the European funds. 1,000 families heat their houses with green energy thanks to subsidies of up to 1,300 EUR granted from the European funds.

P

roject experts have provided trainings to over 5,000 beneficiaries: mayors, managers of public institutions, agricultural entrepreneurs, operators of biomass heating plants, biofuel producers. 372 schools, with more than 21,000 students, have joined the educational initiative that promotes the renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Firefighters and rescuers from Causeni warm up their headquarters with green energy

For more information about the Energy and Biomass Project, see www.biomasa.md website and the Energie din Biomasă Facebook profile.

MAY 2017

UN Magazine | 19

Moldova’s innovative experience in eliminating violence against women was presented at Oxford University

UN Women's Experience in Combating Violence against Women in Moldova was presented at Oxford University. Photo: UN Women Moldova

The experience of UN Women in combating violence against women was presented as a case study at the renowned Oxford University from Great Britain. 37 participants in the Consulting and Coaching for Change (CCC) Executive Masters Program learned about the situation in Moldova, used role playing to better understand the issue and came up with their own plan on how to combat domestic violence in Moldova.

about the results of their work. By introducing and applying the positive deviance method, UN Women Moldova have managed to considerably increase the number of women who know their rights and request access to support services from their localities.

The session was attended by 37 participants with a wide experience in various fields.

"

I work in the private sector. From my experience I have learnt that in any organization or situation there are people who already have the solutions. These solutions can be identified and used for the benefit of the entire organization or society", said SNEZIWE DAMASEB, one of the participating students from South Africa.

U

N Wo m e n C o u n t r y Representative for Moldova Ulziisuren Jamsran spoke to the participants about the innovative methods used by UN Women in eliminating violence against women and girls and 20 | UN Magazine

MAY 2017

" The 37 participants from all continents used a role play to come up with their own ideas on how to combat domestic violence in the context of Moldova.

Photo: UN Women Moldova

"

The participants and faculty members showed great interest in the issue of eliminating violence against women.

The Oxford’s CCC program is an ideal opportunity for change leaders to get a better understanding of the issue and to contribute to its solution", said ULZIISUREN JAMSRAN.

Photo: UN Women Moldova

Photo: UN Women Moldova

Everyone was very impressed with the way this case study was prepared. Students had both - practical and emotional experience.

Many of the students also felt a personal connection to the issue of eliminating violence",

added LARS THUESEN, faculty member, who participated in developing the case study together with the UN Women Moldova’s team.

UN Women Moldova is the regional leader in promoting and applying innovative methods to combat gender-based violence. Since 2016, UN Women has been promoting the solutions that come directly from the survivors of domestic violence by encouraging them to share their experience with other women suffering abuse. Thus, in just one year, the positive deviance method introduced by UN Women empowered 44 “positive champions” (women who have overcame violence and now help other women) who visited more than 30 towns and villages across the country and spoke to more than 1,000 women about making the first step in case they find themselves in an abusive relationship.

T

he Consulting and Coaching for Change Executive Masters Program is carried out by HEC Paris and Said Business School of Oxford University. The students on this program come from all the continents and are professionals with an average experience of 20 years.

The program is addressed to managers and consultants in the field of development and social change.

UN Women Moldova will continue its cooperation with Oxford University and other universities to share experiences and discuss solutions for the most complex issues.

MAY 2017

UN Magazine | 21

Ana Cucos (center) speaks to journalists about equal chances for boys and girls in technology sector. Photo: GirlsGoIT

“For me, the IT world was a revelation” “I was frightened by computer science. I thought it was a difficult subject and that it was only for boys. That is why I avoided this subject at school.

W

hen I saw the announcement for the GirlsGoIT summer camp, I said I should try it. However, deep inside I was sure my idea of learning coding would fail. After the summer camp, I completely changed all my views and plans for the future. For me, the IT world was a revelation. I started cherishing everything connected to technologies, reading and working on my own in this field.

I even opened a GirlsGoIT club in my home village of Salcuta, where we learned new things about in IT together with a team of girls and a mentor. At the same

A 20-year old ANA CUCOS is now studying at the Technical University, Faculty of Information Technologies, and continues to promote the idea that girls can succeed in any field, including in information technologies.

GirlsGoIT promotes the economic empowerment of women through study and involvement in the IT sector.

There are 11 GirlsGoIT clubs in Moldova, where girls study information technologies.

time, I was receiving many messages from younger girls, even from the fifth grade. I organized a number of presentations for them on what they could do using a computer and how they could learn programming.

GirlsGoIT helped me, first of all, to choose my future career.

The most gratifying thing for me is that following our discussions, a friend of mine has also decided to study information technology at university.

T

he IT field is quite complex and it might seem to be even more complicated for many girls, especially if they are not encouraged by their colleagues and parents. My parents offered me much support and encouraged me to have a try, even if I initially had some doubts and fears”.

GirlsGoIT initiative was launched by UN Women (the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women) together with the Embassy of Sweden, Tekedu, Novateca, ATIC, E-Government Center. This partnership has expanded and now includes more than 30 partners: non-governmental organizations, private companies, public institutions, educational institutions and development partners.

Since 2016, the GirlsGoIT partners have been developing the 4E Strategy (Education, Entrepreneurship, Employment and Equality) for women’s empowerment in and through the field of information technologies. For more information about GirlsGoIT, visit www.girlsgoit.org 22 | UN Magazine

MAY 2017

Putting people first The scale and complexity of situations of forced displacement, the lack of commensurate solutions, and the rapidly changing global environment in which displacement is occurring give rise to unprecedented demands to which UNHCR must adapt and respond.

R

efugees, internally displaced and stateless people are of concern to UNHCR.

During 65 years of history the massive challenges of forced displacement have let UNHCR move beyond its primary role in protecting and assisting refugees and helping solve refugee problems. Refugees and displacement are likely to become the defining issue of the twenty-first century.

UNHCR has identified five core directions to focus on in particular for the next five years and commits to: protect, respond, include, empower and solve.

As of 2016, the Republic of Moldova is part of the UNHCR Regional Office for Central Europe (RRCE), including Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

M

oldova continues to be a lead country in terms of legal provisions to protect and integrate refugees and stateless persons, but the implementation and improvement of all these provisions is ongoing and needs continuing international support. The Law on asylum was amended in 2016 and enables refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection with access to all types of education on the same conditions as citizens, as well as extended rights pertaining to health care.

Most important, the law has opened the possibility to resettle refugees to the Republic of Moldova.

As part of strengthening authorities’ capacities, UNHCR has provided trainings to Asylum and Integration Directorate, Border Police Department, judges and lawyers to extend knowledge and skills on how to observe national and internaMAY 2017

FRONTEX and UNHCR trainers visiting the Border Police Department. Photo: UNHCR Moldova

tional legal norms and practices. Under the Quality Initiative in Eastern Europe (QIEE) project, UNHCR has offered opportunities to decision makers to learn about interviewing techniques, credibility assessment, application of exclusion clauses and ECtHR jurisprudence.

UNHCR will assist the Asylum and Integration Directorate to improve the quality of the refugee status determination procedure (RSD) by providing recommendations and specialized trainings so that those in need of international protection were swiftly identified and those who aren't were sent back to their countries of origin in a dignified way.

In 2017, for the first time ever the UNHCR will organize regional, regional events in the Republic of Moldova, covering topics such as Statelessness, Access to the Territory, Judicial Review, and State Legal Aid.

Nearly nine in ten refugees live in host countries in the global south, most notably Turkey, Pakistan, Lebanon, Iran, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Jordan, placing considerable pressure on local infrastructure and services.

UNHCR will make sure that the institution of asylum remains life-saving, non-political, and fundamentally humanitarian.

O

ne should accept that our communities will look and feel differently from how they have in the past. It requires adjusting, at least in a slightly manner. Our vision of what our communities look like should widen the definition of our culture to accommodate new arrivals, even if their customs and values might seem alien to us. That's not something that has ever come easily to people, but it is the only real solution there is.

Judges and prosecutors tackle asylum issues in the Republic of Moldova. Photo: UNHCR Moldova UN Magazine | 23

Plenary session of the conference "Policies and practices of migration regulation in the context of modern challenges" in Tiraspol, January 2017

Migration issues discussed at the International Scientific Conference held in Tiraspol The second edition of the International Scientific Conference on the subject of migration was held in Tiraspol at the end of January 2017. The conference was organized by the leadership of T. G. Shevchenko Tiraspol University in partnership with migration experts from the International Organization for Migration, Mission to Moldova.

T

his year, the conference was dedicated to the policy and practice of regulating migration in the context of modern challenges. Researchers and academia representatives from Chisinau, Comrat, Tiraspol, Bender, Chernivtsi, Kiev, Moscow, Belgrade, Istanbul, Dushanbe, Budapest and Tel Aviv as well as representative of the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Ms. Ecaterina Dorodnova, and IOM Chief of Mission, Mr. Antonio Polosa, took part in the event.

F

ollowing the plenary session, conference participants and guests were divided into sections, covering four main topics: Main directions and specifics of modern migration flows; Consequences of modern migration: social and demographical aspects; Regulation of modern migration flows in the host countries and in the countries of origin of migrants; and Diasporas and modern migration policy of their support in the country of origin.

At the end of the breakout sessions, all participants gathered to emphasize one conclusion – state policies in the sound of migration should be based on research with abundant statistical data and recommendations. Mr. Polosa, IOM chief of mission, promised to continue to support the scientific community.

24 | UN Magazine

"

The potential of the international migration can be used only subject to gaining a deeper understanding of the migration processes […]. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the participation benefits in these processes by the research and scientific community […]. Events such as today's one, can help to bring the most urgent migration-related issues high on the academia and practitioners’ agenda.

Such events are platforms for international and regional dialogue, and can potentially advance further cooperation and knowledge exchange", Mr. ANTONIO POLOSA said.

MAY 2017

Representatives of the academic environment in Tiraspol

Natalia Putina, PhD, Political Sciences, USM Deputy presents her own research "The Impact of Diasporal Communities on the Political Process in the States of Origin"

Mariana Iatco, PhD, presents her own research "The Influence of Migration on Human Ecology.

The Case of the Republic of Moldova"

A

ll research papers will be published in a collection of papers dedicated to the second edition of the conference organized within the supporting the implementation of the migration and development component of the EU-Moldova Mobility partnership.

The project is implemented by IOM Moldova and financed by the European Union, with a budget of 1.5 mil. EUR. MAY 2017

UN Magazine | 25

Students from Carpineni organize a flash mob to urge natives to donate for the purchase of an autograder.

Migrants, native from 23 communities contributed with 2 million lei to local development

O

ver three months, the campaign “For home with love� organized by the Migration and Local Development Project, convinced each tenth migrant from 23 partner localities to contribute financially to local development projects. Among these are better water supply, waste management, roads maintenance services, recreation and sport facilities, public street lighting and local economic development. Migration and Local Development Project (MiDL) is implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in Moldova (UNDP) with the financial support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation in Moldova (SDC).

H

ence, over 40,000 migrants and locals have contributed financially to local development in a transparent and safe way through an online fundraising platform designed for community projects.

A special section on www.guvern24.md dedicated exclusively to local development has been developed with the support of 26 | UN Magazine

The young people from Rusestii Noi clean the snow in the yards, calling on the natives to donate for a tractor needed to evacuate the garbage

"

Even though in the US I have achieved results which seemed impossible, I still see my future in Moldova.

I have donated because I care and I miss my native village. Wherever I go, all the roads lead home, and my childhood place will always remain the most beloved, that is why I want to see it blossom",

says VICTOR GISCA, who donated 500 USD for the rehabilitation of the park in his native village – Chiscareni.

MAY 2017

Mayors and representatives of the National Associations at the fundraising event for 23 community projects

Igor Balaur, a native of Ialoveni, contributed to the development of sports at the local level by organizing an International Wrestling Tournament.

"

The results of this campaign are impressive.

The extraordinary mobilization of the diaspora has confirmed once again that there is a potential that can and has to be exploited.

The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation is further looking to fostering a favorable environment for making migration work for development, supporting creation of services and products for migrants and their families, and finally engaging diaspora in the development of the country",

said RADU DANII, Program Coordinator, Swiss Cooperation Bureau in Moldova.

Migration and Local Development Project, in cooperation with the Congress of Local Authorities of Moldova, and is available for use for almost 900 municipalities all over the country. To match the contributions of migrants and locals, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation awarded grants of 20,000 USD to each of the 23 localities.

The amounts of contributions vary between 1 USD (the cost of a text message or a phone call) and 1,000 USD. The collected amount exceeded the target of 50%. “It is important that our natives are aware of the situation in their locality and know about ongoing projects, no matter where they are.

To that end, we, as members of the Hometown Association from Ialoveni, in partnership with the local public administration, look not just to inform, but also to regularly consult our natives on various issues of importance for the town�, says Tatiana Vrajmas, Chair of the Hometown Association from Ialoveni.

T

he money collected and donated shall be used by local public authorities and Hometown Associations from five towns and eighteen villages-project partners. The total value of all 23 projects to be implemented makes up amount 775,000 USD, out of which: 100,000 USD collected from migrants, 460,000 USD offered by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation and 215,000 USD allocated from local budgets.

"

For the first time as the local authority, we have succeeded to engage migrants so close in solving our village problems. Now we are truly convinced of the care and love of those who have left. It is obvious that people want to engage, and we, as local authorities, must be transparent and create the necessary environment to engage every citizen in their native village development", says VICTOR STANA, mayor of Gura Galbenei (Cimislia).

All 23 projects were identified and prioritized via online surveys, involving local population and migrants.

MAY 2017

UN Magazine | 27

Women from vulnerable groups demand a better life

Platforms for dialogue between women and representatives of Government institutions were facilitated by the UN Program "Women in Politics".

Women from vulnerable groups have made their voice heard

by Moldovan authorities. This is because 580 women from under-represented groups – migrant women, Roma women, women with disabilities, as well as women councillors and members of the civil society throughout the Republic of Moldova – met with some Members of Parliament and representatives of the Government to voice the issues that they encounter every day.

545

women attended – some of them for the first time – 15 Regional Parliamentary Forums "Dialogue with Citizens" and raised in front of women and men Members of Parliament issues such as the insufficient social protection for the vulnerable groups, low salaries, especially for women in public service, the need to implement the local public administration reform and the lack of a permanent dialogue between the citizens and the politicians.

28 | UN Magazine

The forums were organized in partnership with the Common Platform for Dialogue of Women members of Moldovan Parliament and the Territorial and Information Offices of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova.

These forums also targeted the constraints encountered by women who wish to participate in the political life, gender stereotypes and policies needed to enhance the participation of women in the decision-making. And, because the idea of the Forums was to adopt gender quota, which happened in April last year, Aliona Gota, Member of Parliament, reite-rated that the law provided conditions to observe gender equality.

"

It is a revolutionary law, given that it aims both at granting the 14-day paternity leave and securing the presence of women in decision-making positions", the MP ALIONA GOTA stated.

Thus, the MPs heard about the loopholes in the legislation and the recommendations presented by the citizens, and some of the solutions were found in the legislative initiatives.

A

t the same time, 35 women from under-represented groups participated in dialogues with the representatives of state institutions and ministries from Chisinau, such as the Ministry of Labor, Social Protection and Family, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Health. Dialogues have been organized following the Comprehensive training program for skill improvement and capacity building of women. After benefiting from trainings on gender equality in national and international policies, on the importance of cooperation at community level, on reaching consensus between the under-represented groups, and on communication mechanisms and public speech, women leadership, the program culminated in fact-finding visits and dialogues with ministry representatives.

Natalia Luta, the head of the “Mobile Team” social service, the Municipal DiMAY 2017

Natalia Luta hopes that accumulated experience in Goverment institutions will help her become a strong leader.

rection for protection of children's rights Chisinau, hopes that the knowledge that she has obtained, especially the experience from the state institutions, will help her to become a strong woman-leader in the society.

"

Dialogue with the representatives of the superior executive body has added value to my career and has responded to my needs. I have wanted this for so long", NATALIA LUTA said.

T

he platforms for dialogue between women from under-represented groups and representatives of the governing bodies were consolidated by the UN Programme "Women in Politics"; implemented by the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with East Europe Foundation (EEF) and "Partnership for Development�

Center (CPD) - funded by the Government of Sweden.

The training program culminated in documentary visits and dialogues with representatives of ministries and Government institutions.

580 women from all over the country met with Members of the Parliament and government representatives.

The voice of women from vulnerable groups was heard by the authorities.

MAY 2017

UN Magazine | 29

Let’s talk about depression on the occasion of the World Health Day 3 out of 4 people suffering from major depression do not receive adequate treatment The World Health Day 2017 focused on depression – the second largest contributor to disability or health loss and a leading underlying cause for the 128,000 suicide deaths occurring each year in the WHO European Region.

The number of people with depressive disorders in the Region amounts to 40 million, with prevalence in countries ranging from 3.8% to 6.3% of the total population, according to the newly released WHO global health estimates for 2015.

A

ccording to the new report, the prevalence of new depression in the Republic of Moldova was estimated at 5.4%. Despite being very common and affecting anyone at any stage of life, depression is still vastly under-recognized and under-treated; there is, consequently, a need to open up dialogue and tackle the stigma associated with this disabling condition. “ T h e W H O c a mpaign ‘Depression: let’s talk’ aims to inform the general public about the consequences and management of depression, and how to provide support to people living with depression. You may not be able to talk yourself out of a depression, but talking about depression is an important first step.”

30 | UN Magazine

Even when services are available, many people suffering from depression avoid or delay treatment due to fear of prejudice and discrimination.

This, together with low governmental spending, has led to huge gaps in diagnosis and treatment and has resulted in only a fraction of people suffering from depression receiving the appropriate help they need.

O

n 5 April 2017, the Government of the Republic of Moldova endorsed the National Mental Health Programme for 20172021 that foresees country-wide inauguration of the community mental health centers by 2021. People with mental health disorders will benefit from prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services.

"

Although depression can be treated and prevented, at least 75% of all people suffering from major depression do not receive adequate treatment.

However, it is not enough to simply scale up services – it is equally important to raise awareness, build understanding and reduce stigma", said WHO Regional Director for Europe Dr ZSUZSANNA JAKAB.

Over the past 15 years, knowledge has increased substantially in terms of identifying target groups, underlying risk factors, and the impacts of preventive and treatment interventions for depression. It has been shown that interventions can not only decrease the prevalence of depression, but also prevent the occurrence of new cases or recurrent episodes. Since the majority of people with depression have experienced at least one episode of depression before, reducing the recurrence of this condition can bring large-scale benefits.

M

ore effective prevention and treatment of depression, combined with greater awareness of the disease, will be a vital part of countries’ efforts to move towards universal health coverage and social inclusion. Such efforts will help countries to achieve Target 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals – by 2030, to reduce by one-third premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases through prevention and treatment and to promote mental health and well-being.

MAY 2017

3 MAY

8-14 MAY

World Press Freedom Day

UN Global Road Safety Week

29 MAY

4 JUNE

International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression

12 JUNE World Day Against Child Labour

26 JUNE

17 JUNE World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought

17 MAY The International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia

5 JUNE World Environment Day

20 JUNE World Refugee Day

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International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking International Day in Support of Victims of Torture 32 | UN Magazine

http://magazine.un.md MAY 2017