16 December 2017

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) – the UN Migration Agency, held a holiday craft fair, Dobroyarmarok, in Ternopil city. The aim of the fair was to provide IOM livelihood support programme participants, internally displaced persons and vulnerable host community members, with opportunities to exhibit their business products and connect with a diverse range of potential customers and partners. The fair was conducted with funding from the British Embassy in Ukraine and support from the Ternopil City Council and the Ternopil-based NGO “Revival of the Nation”.

“For over three years, the International Organization for Migration has been implementing projects that support internally displaced persons and people affected by the conflict in Ukraine. Thanks to this support, nearly six thousand people received equipment to start and develop their own business, allowing them to increase their household income and provide new services in their communities. And today, some of our project participants gladly present their products to citizens and guests of Ternopil,” said Dr. Thomas Lothar Weiss, Chief of Mission at the IOM Mission in Ukraine.

Dobroyarmarok welcomed over 30 different businesses from nine regions of Ukraine. Products offered ranged from small-batch granola and Crimean Tatar pastries to therapeutic and educational toys and unique reusable eco-bags. Not only could the guests enjoy delicious treats, buy handmade souvenirs and presents, but they were also invited to participate in master classes. The Ternopil-based initiative group, participating in IOM’s social cohesion project taught adults and children how to create handmade postcards, Christmas decorations, toys and candles. In addition, Dobroyarmarok promoted networking and collaboration among fair exhibitors by encouraging partnership and communication.

The Dobroyarmarok fair was conducted under the IOM project entitled ‘Integration and Stabilization Support through Livelihoods for Internally Displaced Persons and the Conflict-Affected Population in Ukraine’ funded by the British Embassy in Ukraine.