site.btaLabour Ministry Signs Memorandum with UN High Commissioner for Refugees

Labour and Social Policy Minister Ivanka Shalapatova and Seda Kuzucu, Bulgaria Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), signed a memorandum of cooperation, Shalapatova's ministry reported on its website on Monday. Under the memorandum, the two sides will work together to enhance the capacity of the Labour Ministry and its agencies to promote the social and economic inclusion of asylum seekers and people holding international or temporary protection status.

Shalapatova said the Bulgarian government prioritizes upgrading the mechanisms for supporting refugees and international protection seekers. The memorandum with the UNHCR will make the measures in this field more efficient, she added.

The signatories agreed to share information relevant to improving the refugee welfare situation. They will take joint actions for the integration of refugees in Bulgarian society. They will also strengthen child protection systems to ensure better care and support for at-risk children.