UNICEF & UNHCR in Moldova and Romania set up two Blue Dot centers at the Leuseni border crossing

Two Blue Dot centers have been set up at the Leușeni-Albita border crossing. More exactly, the UNICEF and UNHCR teams from Moldova and Romania joined forces and opened two mirror centers, one on the Moldovan and one on the Romanian side. The goal is to strengthen the support offered to refugee children and families from Ukraine, who came to the Republic of Moldova, and now aim to enter the territory of Romania. 

The Blue Dot centers provide information, counseling, and identification services for unaccompanied children or separated from their parents. Also, several child protection specialists are working at the checkpoint, providing support to the Border Police in both countries to prevent cases of abuse and trafficking, especially among children at risk. In addition, the centers have special areas for mothers with small children. 

"UNHCR & UNICEF teams in Moldova and Romania are working with the authorities on both sides to ensure the safe and protected passage of refugee children from Ukraine. Amazing teams doing amazing work", said UNICEF Representative in Moldova, Maha Damaj. 

The Blue Dots are set up by UNICEF, UNHCR, central public authorities, and other development partners. The centers are located near the border crossings with Ukraine, and within them, specialists in various fields offer consulting and other services depending on the identified needs. Moreover, the centers are safe and child-friendly spaces where they can rest, play, and engage in activities. 

UNICEF Moldova and its development partners have set up three other "Blue Dots" centers at the Refugee Accommodation Center at Moldexpo and the Palanca, Otaci border crossings. In the last 30 days alone, about 3,000 refugees from Ukraine, including more than 1,400 children, have benefited from the services provided in the Blue Dots centers open in Moldova.