Father's Day celebrated for first time in Moldova

National Father's Day is celebrated today for the first time in Moldova. The first edition of the celebration brought together numerous fathers of all ages at a public event organized at the Parliament, highlighting the importance of fathers' involvement in family life.

The event - Active fathers – equal partners in raising children promoted the active and responsible involvement of men in raising and educating children, as well as the equitable sharing of household responsibilities. Held in the Parliament Square, the event included various recreational activities, music, games for children, and interactive moments that highlighted the active role of fathers in family life.

The program included games in the Father and Child area, creative workshops, reading sessions, and interactive quizzes, filled with color and good cheer. The photo exhibition - First moments matter and the 100 books as gifts for children campaign brought emotion and inspiration, while the family-friendly policies area presented legislative measures approved by the Parliament and concrete examples from companies that support active fathers through actions like paternity leave or flexible work programs.

The event gathered a large community of participants – fathers, children, families, grandparents, alongside members of Parliament, representatives of the Government, the Ombudsman for Children's Rights, diplomatic missions, international organizations, development partners and civil society. The special guest at the event was President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu.

The event was organized by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova, in partnership with UN Agencies in Moldova – UNFPA, UN Women, UNICEF and ILO, the Austrian Development Agency, the Child Rights Information Center, the National Confederation of Trade Unions and Moldcell Foundation. The initiative marks the beginning of a tradition meant to encourage more fathers to become active and equal partners in family life.

This week Parliament adopted a resolution establishing the National Father's Day, to be celebrated annually on the last Sunday of June. The celebration is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the essential role of fathers in the lives of children and the well-being of the family. It is also an opportunity to encourage equal partnership between parents.