The following information will provide guidance to humanitarian workers who are in direct contact with displaced people from Ukraine regarding UNHCR’s cash assistance programme.
Background
This document provides information on upcoming adjustments to UNHCR’s cash assistance programme in the Republic of Moldova (hereinafter “Moldova”). The programme will continue to support vulnerable refugees from Ukraine residing in Moldova; however, starting in April 2025, the transfer value (the amount of cash provided) will be reduced from 2,200 MDL to 1,625 MDL per person per month due to unanticipated funding constraints.
To ensure that assistance remains available to the same number of beneficiaries, a reduction in the transfer value will be implemented across all recipients. While this adjustment means a lower amount of assistance per person, it allows continued support for essential household expenditures, including food, housing, utilities, health, clothing, and education.
The Minimum Expenditure Basket (MEB) in Moldova is set at 2,200 MDL per person per month and is widely used by partners implementing Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) programmes. This amount, calculated by the Government of Moldova, reflects the estimated cost of essential goods and services.
The reduced transfer value of 1,625 MDL per person per month was determined by prioritizing specific components of the MEB—namely, food, housing, utilities, health, clothing, and education—rather than covering the entire range of expenditures included in the MEB. These priority areas were identified based on refugees’ prioritized expenditures and needs, as determined through Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) exercises, the Socio-Economic Insight Survey (SEIS) results and protection monitoring. This approach ensures that the available funding continues to address the most critical household expenses within the constraints of the programme’s budget.
I received an SMS from UNHCR saying my cash assistance amount has changed. Why?
Due to unanticipated funding constraints, UNHCR must reduce the cash assistance amount. We understand that this may be difficult, however this adjustment is necessary to ensure that assistance continues for all eligible refugees, rather than reducing the number of people assisted and risking further hardship or exposure to harm
This change applies to all beneficiaries of UNHCR’s cash assistance program in Moldova.
Why is the cash assistance amount being reduced?
UNHCR provides cash assistance based on available funding and the needs of refugees. While we strive to support as many people as possible, assistance depends on resources and prioritization of the most vulnerable. Due to unexpected funding constraints, UNHCR must reduce the cash assistance amount.
What is the new cash assistance amount?
The new amount is MDL 1,625 per person per month.
For example:
- If your family has three members enrolled, the total amount you will receive is MDL 1,625 × 3 = MDL 4,875 per month.
- This assistance will continue to be paid every month.
Will I still receive cash assistance?
If you are a current recipient, you will continue receiving assistance, but the amount will be adjusted. Refugees enrolling on or after April 1, 2025, will receive the reduced amount of 1,625 MDL for two months. If they obtain legal status and meet the eligibility criteria through the household vulnerability assessment, they will continue receiving 1,625 MDL per person per month.
When will this change take effect?
The new transfer value will be applied starting April 1, 2025.
- If you are already enrolled, your assistance will be adjusted to the new amount from April onwards.
- Refugees enrolling on or after April 1, 2025, will receive the reduced amount of 1,625 MDL for two months. If they obtain legal status and meet the eligibility criteria through the household vulnerability assessment, they will continue receiving 1,625 MDL per person per month.
I have not received yet my March payment, will the March payment be with the reduced amount?
No. March payments will be calculated based on 2,200 MDL per person per month. The new/reduced transfer value will be effective as of April 1, 2025.
Do I need to take any action?
No. Please keep in mind that only the transfer value is changing. UNHCR maintains to implement verification interviews, same eligibility criteria, requirement of having legal status.
Is this a temporary change, or will it continue?
At this time, UNHCR cannot guarantee whether the amount will increase again in the future. However, we will continue to look for additional funding to support refugees. You should not plan for a future increase, though, at this time.
How was the new transfer value calculated?
Since the programme began, the cash assistance amount has been based on the MEB calculated by the Government of Moldova. The new transfer value was determined by prioritizing essential expenses—food, housing, utilities, health, clothing, and education—instead of covering all items in the MEB. These priorities were identified based on refugees’ spending patterns from Post-Distribution Monitoring (PDM) exercises and the Socio-Economic Insight Survey (SEIS).
We understand that this amount may not cover all needs, but due to limited funding, this approach allows UNHCR to continue assisting as many refugees as possible rather than reducing the number of beneficiaries, which could lead to further hardship.
I am particularly vulnerable, for example due to a serious health issue or a disability. Can I receive additional support to help me meet the related costs?
UNHCR’s cash programme is multi-purpose, which means that the amount does not distinguish between different types of vulnerability, but rather seeks to address the needs of all people who lack resources or have specific needs. As such, we cannot provide additional cash support to meet your specific needs.
The ATMs do not allow withdrawals less than a specific amount (in general multiples of MDL 20). What should I do if I cannot withdraw the full amount?
If you have a remaining balance on your prepaid card that cannot be withdrawn due to ATM limits, you can still use the card to make purchases in stores. The card functions for both ATM cash withdrawals and direct payments for any service provider using Point of Sale (POS) terminals, allowing you to use the remaining amount for any payments or purchases.
Where can I call to get more information about additional humanitarian assistance not related to cash?
You can call the Refugee Response Green Line at 0 800 800 11, and the operator will provide information about temporary accommodation and any humanitarian aid available in Moldova. The Green Line is toll-free, and it is available in Ukrainian, Romanian, Russian, and English.