Study visit to Moldova

There is a new country on ShareMusic’s map of international contacts! Recently our project coordinator Natallia Pettersson has been participating in a study visit to Chisinau, Moldova and shared her impressions:

- My goal was to learn more about the country, meet local organisations and see if they are interested in collaboration. I want to express warm gratitude to ForumCiv for organising this trip, and to all the hosts in Moldova who provided us with a deep insight into country’s current situation and future perspectives: Embassy of Sweden in Chisinau, EU Delegationin Moldova, UN Women Moldova, National Youth Council and other organisations. As Moldova has been granted EU candidate status this summer, the expectations of the positive development are high despite different challenges.

I have met the team of the Alliance of NGOs with persons with disabilities and organisation Sunshine, which promotes the rights of persons with Down Syndrome. To be a person with disabilities in Moldova implies many difficulties. However, the Alliance and its 55 member organisations are devoted to monitoring of legislation and advocacy work, and do their best to bring changes in the areas of early intervention, education, employment, accessibility,deinstitutionalisation and development of social services. We have also exchanged knowledge and experience on how we can change attitudes in society towards equality and inclusion.

Besides I had a chance to visit a dance rehearsal and meet two organisations working closely together: the Association of Parents with Children with Special Needs Planet of Mercy and Fundația PlaiulSoarelui. We had an inspiring discussion about how to develop artistic potential and provide opportunities for all to express themselves. Planet of Mercy is famous for its inclusive artistic performances and organising international inclusive festivals. Currently they are also working hard on creation of the social rehabilitation centre Dream Estate, where people with disabilities are engaged in agriculture, study different disciplines from the general educational subjects to the basics of sewing, carpentry and housekeeping. Also a theatre group has been created and 2 performances staged and presented for the audience.

"We have planned to organize our activities in such a way that every person will find here something to their liking and their abilities" – explains the director of Planet of Mercy Ludmila Siskina.

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