PHOTO // Parliament hosts exhibition dedicated to civil society

The stories of people who have overcome difficult moments in their lives thanks to the support provided by non-governmental organizations are presented in a photo exhibition “People We Stand Up For”, currently hosted by Parliament.

The exhibition is organized by the National Center for Assistance and Information of Non-Governmental Organizations in Moldova Contact, in collaboration with Soros Foundation Moldova. It reflects the contribution of civil society to improving quality of life and to building more supportive and inclusive communities.

The photo series illustrates the experiences of children, young people, elderly persons and vulnerable families who have benefited from support, services and development opportunities offered by organizations from the associative sector. Among the beneficiaries are people from different regions of the country, as well as from abroad: mothers and children who fled the war and found safety and support here; children with special needs who benefited from recovery and inclusion services; people who were helped to cope with serious health problems, as well as young people who managed to develop businesses and contribute to their communities.

At the same time, the exhibition highlights the diversity of fields in which non-governmental organizations operate – from educational and childcare services to sustainable development initiatives in rural areas, environmental protection projects, charitable actions and programs dedicated to defending human rights. It also emphasizes the role of these organizations in promoting social inclusion and facilitating access to essential services.

The inauguration event of the exhibition was attended by the Deputy Secretary General of Parliament, Tamara Gheorghița, representatives of the Secretariat of Parliament and of non-governmental organizations, as well as some of the protagonists of the exhibition. They shared their personal experiences and spoke about how the support they received helped them overcome difficulties and look to the future with greater confidence.

In her opening remarks, Tamara Gheorghița underlined that the legislative institution maintains ongoing dialogue with civil society, highlighting the essential role of non-governmental organizations in complementing the state’s efforts to support vulnerable people.

“ I have always appreciated the work of civil society organizations whose aim is to support specific categories of people – children, the elderly, people who need particular assistance. When there is someone who can help you, I believe this is one of the clearest expressions of solidarity, of understanding people’s needs and of the ability to respond to those needs. Let us not forget the people who truly stand up for other people,” said Tamara Gheorghița.

The Executive Director of the Contact Center, Serghei Neicovcen, stressed that the exhibition is not only about organizations, but also about people.

“Behind every project there is a real story, a destiny and a concrete change. We want visitors to the exhibition to understand the human impact of the work of non-governmental organizations and the essential contribution of civil society to the development of communities in the Republic of Moldova,” noted Serghei Neicovcen.

Director of Advocacy and Programs at Soros Foundation Moldova Natalia Vîlcu pointed out that the exhibition is also an invitation to contribute to the development of the communities we are part of.

“This is dedicated to people who choose to get involved and to stand up for the development of communities. They demonstrate that civic engagement is one of the most valuable resources of an open society, which becomes stronger when citizens have the freedom and confidence to participate actively in public life,” said Vîlcu.

The photo exhibition can be visited until July 17 of this year. Those interested can schedule a visit to Parliament by accessing the website www.vizite.parlament.md.