Sophia In Moldova: Making Support Accessible to Over 2.4 Million People
Sophia is now available to Moldova’s 2.4 million residents and refugees from neighboring countries – offering support in Romanian, Ukrainian, and Russian. This marks a powerful step in breaking down barriers of borders, language, and stigma that too often prevent survivors of domestic abuse from seeking help.
In Moldova, over 63% of women experience domestic abuse, many in silence. By making Sophia accessible 24/7, anonymously and securely, this initiative creates a critical pathway for survivors to seek support without leaving a trace. It’s a bold move toward reducing the number of silent sufferers.
The official launch event took place on March 11 in Chisinau, Moldova, drawing participants from the government, international agencies, NGOs, support services, and media. Rhiana Spring, our founder and CEO, presented the features of the chatbot and emphasised the significance of this expansion.
She shared:
“Domestic violence knows no borders, and neither should support. With Chatbot Sophia, we are breaking the silence and the barriers that keep victim-survivors from getting the help they need. No one should feel alone in their struggle and now support is just a click away.”
Sorin Mereacre, President of the East Europe Foundation and our local partner in Moldova also spoke at the event, underscoring the power of collaboration:
“Sophia is more than a chatbot – it is a symbol of solidarity and concrete support for victims of domestic violence. We are glad that this initiative, already recognised internationally, is now also available in the Republic of Moldova.”
The expansion is made possible with support from L’Oréal, the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation, the Embassy of Sweden in Chisinau, and the East Europe Foundation Moldova.
During the launch, stakeholders expressed strong interest in Sophia’s role in addressing domestic violence in Moldova.
Arina Turkan, a domestic violence lawyer who attended the event, noted:
“The feature of the digital safe of chatbot Sophia is key. It will ensure women feel empowered and believed when they report abuse.”
The launch was widely covered by Moldovan media, featured across top newspapers and TV channels. Check out some of the coverage:
Spread the word. Someone you care about could be trapped in an abusive relationship. With Chatbot Sophia, they can now gather potential evidence, assess their rights, and learn about their options – safely and privately.
ACT now. Break the silence. Visit Sophia.chat.
– Written by Ahona Azad Choyti for Spring ACT
