IOM Romania refurbish sections of five public libraries with support from the People of Japan
Empowering knowledge: IOM Romania refurbish sections of five public libraries with support from the People of Japan
Bucharest, Romania – 17 April 2024: In a significant stride towards fostering inclusivity, community engagement and meaningful cultural exchange, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Romania have refurbished sections of five public libraries across Romania, made possible through the generous funding and support from the People of Japan, and in partnership with the educational network EduCaB Romania.
On 17 April, the Ambassador of Japan to Romania, His Excellency Takashi Katae, together with staff from the Embassy of Japan and representatives of IOM Romania and EduCaB, visited the newly renovated space inside Bucharest Metropolitan Library “Filiala Marin Preda”.
With a vision of inclusivity at its core, these spaces now serve as vibrant hubs filled with knowledge for Ukrainian refugees, migrants, other third country nationals, and Romanian nationals alike. The renovated sections of the libraries feature modern amenities and comfortable seating areas, which create an inviting space for learning, where people from diverse backgrounds can forge meaningful connections and share experiences. Thanks to these refurbished spaces, the staff will also be able to develop a wide range of inclusion-related activities that foster people’s creativity and promote the literacy and resilience of all, as well as provide information points for migrants and refugees. Witnessing first-hand the importance of such a space, H.E. Takashi Katae expressed his admiration for the initiative taken by IOM Romania and EduCaB.
“We are extremely grateful for the unwavering support of the People of Japan in realising this marvellous project”, stated Mircea Mocanu, the Head of IOM Romania. “As Romania continues to welcome and support Ukrainian refugees and migrants from all over the world, initiatives like this play a significant role in empowering individuals to thrive in their host communities. This initiative will offer people from all walks of life the chance to access inclusive spaces that serve as a catalyst for integration and mutual understanding. I am extremely happy that, together with our partners, we are building bridges for opportunity for all.”
For further inquiries, please contact:
James Michael Wilson, Senior Communications and Media Coordinator: jwilson@iom.int
Notes to Editors:
With the support from the People of Japan, IOM Romania has renovated sections of five libraries across the country:
- Biblioteca Metropolitană Bucureşti “Filiala Marin Preda”, located in Sector 1, Bucharest.
- Biblioteca Municipală Medgidia, located in Medgidia, Constanța County.
- Biblioteca Județeană George Barițiu, Branch No.4, located in Brașov, Brașov County.
- Biblioteca Comunală Botiz, located in Botiz, Satu Mare County.
- Biblioteca Municipală “Laurențiu Ulici”, located in Sighetu Marmației, Maramureș County.
You can see more in the factsheet for the refurbishment here.
About IOM Romania
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) first started its work in Romania in February 1992. IOM Romania concentrates its efforts on: Integration of Beneficiaries of International Protection and Third-Country Nationals (TCNs); Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR); relocation and resettlement of refugees; inclusion and capacity development; the fight against trafficking in human beings; as well as crisis and emergency response.
