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26/09/2022

Newsletter on the rights of the child - 06/09/2021

14th European Forum on the rights of the child - follow it live (26/09/2022)

From 27 to 29 September 2022 (13:30 – 17:30), participants - including children - will enjoy an online, interactive event experience, with some speakers present in Brussels, under the theme of this 14th edition: ‘Bringing children to the centre: Empowering, protecting and including children’.

European Week of Regions and Cities (EWRC) (26/09/2022)

Online Registration Now Open for the Workshop “Getting more children and young people to participate in the workings of democracy” within the framework of the annual European Week of Regions and Cities (EWRC) that will take place between 10-11 October 2022. The workshop will take place on 12 October 2022. During the session, some of the beneficiaries of ongoing projects under CERV will present inspiring actions on youth participation that provide pathways for children and young people to become engaged in the democratic lives of their communities.

Practice Guide for the application of the Brussels llb Regulation (26/09/2022)

The EU Commission has developed a Practice Guide for the application of the Brussels IIb Regulation. The Regulation is the cornerstone of the judicial cooperation in family matters with cross-border implications in the EU.

A European strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+) (26/09/2022)

Digital participation, empowerment and protection finely balanced in the new European strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+). The new strategy for a better internet for kids (BIK+), adopted on 11 May 2022, will ensure that children are protected, respected and empowered online in the new Digital Decade, in line with the European Digital Principles. A child-friendly version of the BIK+ Strategy is also available.

FRA online survey on persons displaced from Ukraine (26/09/2022)

FRA has opened an online survey on persons displaced from Ukraine. The survey will collect the views and experiences of people fleeing the war in Ukraine. It addresses a wide range of issues related to their stay in the EU, including access to employment, education, housing, healthcare, language learning and other issues affecting their social and economic integration. The survey will be carried out in ten EU Member States: Bulgaria, Czechia, Estonia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain. The outcome of the survey will inform the EU and its Member States as well as the organisations working with displaced people so that projects and laws can be initiated that help support the people fleeing from the war in Ukraine. To contribute to the open online survey please visit the link below.

ICJ Training materials on Alternatives to detention for migrant children (26/09/2022)

The International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) has published a set of training materials on Alternatives to detention for migrant children. The materials cover the international and EU legal framework of alternatives to detention for children and related rights, such as the right to liberty and prohibition of immigration detention of children. The materials aim to support efforts to ensure that children are never detained for purposes of immigration control, in accordance with international standards. The materials provide specific good practice examples of alternatives, such as case management or placement of migrant children in mainstream child protection systems. Module III. details the right to be heard and procedural rights of children, and Module IV. covers communication with children in this context. The training modules are aimed for national judges, lawyers, state authorities, guardians, social workers, and other practitioners.

How to better protect children in criminal proceedings (26/09/2022)

Child-friendly templates for better communication, task forces to guide young repeat offenders and artistic expression courses in prison: these are just some of the good practices identified in a new report on safeguards for children in criminal proceedings from the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA). It identifies shortcomings in national justice systems and suggests potential remedies that countries could follow to uphold children’s rights in the judiciary.

05/05/2022

Newsletter on the rights of the child - 06/09/2021

Introductory words by the new Commission Coordinator for the Rights of the Child, Marie-Cécile Rouillon (11/04/2022)

“Children’s rights are human rights, under any circumstances”, stressed Vice-President Šuica. Russia’s aggression against Ukraine brutally denies their basic rights. Nearly 4.7 million refugees are fled Ukraine. Half of them are children, and many arrive without their parents. This Newsletter focuses on the support that the EU is providing to help Member States protect their rights.

EU Network for Children’s Rights (13/04/2022)

As announced in the EU Strategy on the rights of the child, the Commission launched the EU Network for Children’s Rights on 31 March 2022. 23 Member States, 2 associated countries, FRA, UNICEF, the European Parliament and the Council of Europe attended that meeting. They notably discussed the protection of the rights of children fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, key deliverables of the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child one year after its adoption, synergies with the Council of Europe’s new Strategy on the Rights of the Child. They also exchanged views on the future of the Network. Next meetings in its fully-fledged configuration will include representatives for civil society organisations.

The "European Union’s Plan for Children’s Rights" - The child-friendly version of the EU Strategy on Children’s Rights (06/04/2022)

To celebrate the first anniversary of the EU Strategy on Children's Rights , "the European Union’s Plan for Children’s Rights", a child-friendly version of the EU Strategy, is now available in every EU language. The short and the easy-to-read versions are adequate for every audience. Children themselves participated in designing this booklet, made in partnership with the Centre for Children’s Rights at Queen’s University in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The Centre brought together two groups of children and young people from two schools in Dublin, Ireland. They worked together to decide how to present key messages to children.

Guidelines on creating child friendly written documents (07/04/2022)

Guidelines on creating child friendly written documents and meetings remain available on line. A year ago, children participants called laws and policies to be child-friendly: "If it’s friendly for the adults, it should be friendly for the kids. And if it’s friendly for the kids, it will also be more friendly for the adults. Children are EU citizens too. Children will be more likely to accept and obey laws if they understand them. How else can children know what their government is supposed to be doing? All documents should be understandable to children because children deserve to know what their rights are, in a way that is suitable for them. Because understanding the world around you, and protecting yourself, is never a bad thing."

Operational guidelines to support Member States in applying the Temporary Protection Directive (06/04/2022)

Since the unprovoked and unjustified Russian aggression against Ukraine, nearly 4.7 millions of people – half of them being children – have arrived in the EU in the space of weeks. The EU welcomes them on its territory. For the first time, the Temporary Protection Directive was activated to offer them quick assistance and a clear legal status. On 18 March 2022, the Commission presented its Operational guidelines to support Member States in applying the Temporary Protection Directive. They aim at helping those arriving to access their rights and the Member States to assume their new responsibilities. A dedicated chapter on children pays specific attention to the situation of unaccompanied and separated children, who need to be registered and given specialised care, with safeguards against any risks of trafficking. The Commission coordinates relocation efforts to transfer unaccompanied children to other Member States (via the Solidarity Platform). The Commission’s recommendations to strengthen the protection of children apply to all migrant children, irrespective of their status, taking into consideration the best interest of the child at any stage of the process. Children should also be provided child-friendly information, and their opinion be heard, and obstacles tackled in accessing their rights.

Communication on “Welcoming those fleeing war in Ukraine: Readying Europe to meet the needs” (06/04/2022)

On 23 March 2022, the European Commission released the Communication on “Welcoming those fleeing war in Ukraine", complementing the Operational guidelines. This Communication outlines actions undertaken to support Member States. Beyond the immediate support provided in terms of assistance at the border, reception and civil protection, the EU is taking further steps. The objective is to help Member States ensure beneficiaries can effectively access their right to education, healthcare, accommodation and jobs. Children are a priority in EU support. Referring specifically the needs of children Vice-President Šuica, said: “Children make up around half of all arrivals since the beginning of the war. These children have suffered traumatising experiences and have seen their lives up-ended from one day to another. It is our duty and responsibility to ensure that they are appropriately received and cared for, including children with disabilities. The immediate priority now is to offer these children a place where they can feel secure, and receive swift and indiscriminate, access to psychosocial support, healthcare, nutrition and education. Unaccompanied minors, children separated from their parents and orphaned children need to be immediately registered and supported by child protection services to prevent them from falling prey to trafficking and abuse. With this Communication, we are taking concrete actions in the best interests of these children, every step of the way''.

10-Point Plan on stronger European coordination on welcoming people fleeing the war against Ukraine (06/04/2022)

At the extraordinary Justice and Home Affairs Council of 28 March, the European Commission presented, in coordination with the French Presidency of the Council, a 10-Point Plan for stronger European coordination on welcoming people fleeing the war against Ukraine. The Commission together with the European Union Agency for Asylum will develop standard operating procedures and uniform guidance for the reception and support of children, including swift identification and registration in Member States of arrivals and destination, accommodation, transfers and prevention of trafficking. The Commission will also develop specific procedures for the transfer of unaccompanied minors.

EU solidarity with Ukraine (13/04/2022)

The EU and its international partners are united in condemning Russia's aggression on Ukraine. We will provide support to those seeking shelter and we will help those looking for a safe way home. The EU will continue to offer strong political, financial and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine and impose hard-hitting sanctions against Russia and those complicit in the war. In a dedicated webpage, the EU provides practical information to assist those fleeing from the war.

Fleeing Ukraine: Protection for children (13/04/2022)

All children from Ukraine arriving in the EU should have swift access to their rights, without discrimination, including the necessary psychological support, healthcare and access to education. The Commission is: supporting and funding access to psychosocial care and basic services; supporting the appropriate reception and care for orphans and children with disabilities; encouraging the implementation of the European Strategy on the Rights of the Child; working with international organisations to reunite families through family tracing programmes; supporting Member States, though the renewed Schengen Information System, in their work tackling child trafficking and abduction; preparing standard operating procedures for transfers of unaccompanied minors and other children with special needs to ensure protection from risks of abuse and trafficking.

Commission proposes EU-wide rules to combat violence against women and domestic violence (07/04/2022)

On 8 March 2022, the European Commission released its proposal on EU-wide rules to combat violence against women and domestic violence. The proposed Directive, once adopted, will criminalise rape based on lack of consent, female genital mutilation and cyber violence, which includes: non-consensual sharing of intimate images; cyber stalking; cyber harassment; and cyber incitement to violence or hatred. The new rules will also strengthen victims' access to justice and encourage Member States to implement a one-stop shop mechanism, meaning that all support and protection services would be located in the same place. The proposal also calls for adequate and specialised protection and support, for instance, through free of charge helplines and rape crisis centres. It also provides for targeted support for groups with specific needs or at risk, including women fleeing armed conflict. Contributing to the EU Strategy on Children’s rights, this proposal notably aims at providing for specific safeguards for children victims of violence against women or of domestic violence. They will guarantee, for example, that children can easily report offences and are provided with safe places for with parent offenders, who have rights of access.

Proposal for a Directive on Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence (07/04/2022)

On 23 February 2022, the European Commission has adopted a proposal for a Directive on corporate sustainability due diligence. The proposal aims to foster sustainable and responsible corporate behaviour, including the prohibition of child labour, throughout global value chains. Companies play a key role in building a sustainable economy and society. They will be required to identify and, where necessary, prevent, end or mitigate adverse impacts of their activities on human rights, such as child labour, and on the environment. This proposal is especially relevant to uphold children's rights and consistent with the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child, which commits the Union to a zero tolerance approach against child labour and to ensure that supply chains of EU companies are free of child labour.

SAVE THE DATE - High-level conference on the Brussels IIb Regulation (02/05/2022)

8 September 2022 (13h-16h CET) This high-level conference, hosted by Ewa Kopacz (Vice President and the European Parliament Coordinator on Children’s Rights) and Didier Reynders (Commissioner for Justice), aims to draw attention to the novelties and important changes introduced by the Brussels IIb Regulation, which enters into application on 1 August 2022, and to provide a forum for an exchange of views with legal practitioners on cross-border family disputes involving children in the European Union. The conference will provide participants with an opportunity to hear from experts in EU family law on the key changes to the Regulation and to engage in a moderated discussion on the topic through a Q & A session. The event will be hosted online with the limited possibility to participate in person in Brussels. Interpretation will be provided in 10 languages (DE, EN, FR, IT, EL, ES, PT, PL, BG, RO). Target Audience: Judges, Lawyers, Mediators, Central Authorities, academics, child protection officials, NGOs and organisations on Children’s rights working on cross-border family cases in EU Member States, Western Balkan and EFTA countries. Participation in this event is free

The European Parliament sends a strong political message to address the specific plight of Children and young people fleeing the war in Ukraine (07/04/2022)

The European Parliament adopted, on 7 April 2022, with an overwhelming majority a Resolution on the EU Protection of children and young people fleeing the war in Ukraine. The Resolution features important provisions to address the specific plight of children and young people fleeing the conflict in Ukraine. It stresses to need for the creation of a robust registration system at the border, to track and monitor children, with a particular attention of unaccompanied children to ensure they do not go missing or worse, end up in the hands of traffickers. It also includes strong measures to for the integration of these children in the hosting countries granting them immediate access to education and health on equal footing with their EU national peers, so as to ensure all these children are given a real change to excel and reach their full potential.

New Council of Europe’s Strategy for the Rights of the Child 2022-2027 (06/04/2022)

The Council of Europe's Strategy for the Rights of the Child aims to guide the 46 member States of the Council of Europe in protecting and promoting the rights of the child in 2022-2027. It was officially launched at a high-level conference in Rome on 7-8 April. In close synergy with the EU Strategy, the Council of Europe’s new Strategy focuses on six priority areas: Freedom from violence for all children; equal opportunities and social inclusion for all children; access to and safe use of technologies for all children; child-friendly justice for all children; giving a voice to every child; children’s rights in crisis and emergency situations. It notably includes apriority on children’s rights in crisis and emergency situations. The devastating impact on children’s rights of Russia’ aggression against Ukraine was at the centre of discussions in Rome. The Commission welcomes this New Council of Europe’s Strategy, showing close synergies with the EU Strategy for the rights of the child. Both demonstrate a common endeavour to join forces to uphold children’s rights across the European continent in difficult times.

European Mental Health Week - 9 May until 13 May 2022 (25/04/2022)

European Mental Health Week is a pan-European initiative that aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health in our everyday lives. Set up and run by Europe’s largest independent mental health NGO Mental Health Europe (MHE), the third edition of the European Mental Health Awareness Week will take place from 9 May until 13 May 2022. This year’s theme, ‘Speak Up for Mental Health’ will shine the spotlight on youth mental health. In most European countries, mental health problems among young people (15–24-year-olds) have doubled the last two years as a consequence of the pandemic. Young people constitute an especially vulnerable group. Immediate action at European and national level is crucial to address the mental health needs of young people in Europe. Now, armed conflict in the European region has increased uncertainty and fear. This week-long online action is a chance for everyone and especially young people to speak up about all aspects of mental health, share personal stories of how to cope with difficulties in times of crisis and in general, and highlight the need for action.

Children and Young People's Online Questionnaire to inform the UN General Comment No. 26 on Children’s Rights and the Environment, with a special focus on Climate Change (deadline: 30 June) (05/04/2022)

Until 30 June 2022, the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child invites young people from around the world to complete a questionnaire that will help shape the General Comment No. 26 (on Children’s Rights and the Environment with a Special Focus on Climate Change). This is the official UN guidance on what governments must do to uphold children’s rights and protect our planet. This consultation will help fill gaps in their current understanding of certain key issues and clarify difficult concepts (e.g. rights of future generations). Most importantly, it will integrate the voices of children and young people, as the most impacted by the issue.

Resources and information concerning Ukraine shared through EGN (13/04/2022)

The European Guardianship Network (EGN) provides, both in English and Ukrainian, many helpful resources for those working with Ukrainian refugees and unaccompanied and separated children.

U-CARE project's Workshops on 28 and 29 March (06/04/2022)

The U-CARE (Unaccompanied Children in Alternative Residence) project is financed by the EU Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (2014-2020) and coordinated by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Belgium. The U-CARE team organised hybrid thematic workshops on: Alternative Care Prototypes to support unaccompanied migrant children (UMC) in their transition to adulthood; foster care for younger UMC; and building capacity of professionals and foster carers of UMC. They gathered 100 stakeholders from more than 10 EU countries. Recordings of the workshops are available.

Handbook on the rights of the child updated (2022) (13/04/2022)

The European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), the Council of Europe and the European Court of Human Rights publish the second edition of their Handbook on European law relating to the rights of the child. The Handbook is a comprehensive and practical guide to European law in the area of child rights and it aims to illustrate how European law and case law accommodate the specific interests and needs of children. This new publication covers topics such as: equality; economic, social, cultural and civic rights and freedoms; personal identity; family life; alternative care and adoption; migration and asylum; protection against violence and exploitation; personal data and consumer protection; children’s rights within criminal justice and alternative proceedings.

Children’s reflections on privacy and the protection of their personal data: A child-centric approach to data protection information formats (21/03/2022)

The Children and Youth Services Review has published an article on children’s understanding of privacy and data protection. Researchers from the University of Ghent have spoken to 83 children aged 9–12 years old in two public primary schools in the city of Ghent, Belgium. They gained insights on children’s everyday (online) activities and practices, as well as their understanding of and views on interpersonal and institutional privacy, the privacy management techniques they use and the rights they have. The findings of the participatory research with the children provided insight into children’s ideas and views about these issues. The article reports on a number of children’s recommendations on how exactly information about privacy and data protection should be provided to them.

28/01/2022

Newsletter on the rights of the child - 06/09/2021

Wishes for a good, healthy new year to you all! (07/01/2022)

We are happy to announce that the European Commission has appointed Marie-Cécile Rouillon as its new Coordinator on the Rights of the Child, replacing Valeria Setti. Marie-Cécile will start her work on 16 March and will introduce herself in the next newsletter. Until then, you can count on the rights of the child team to assure continuing service and a smooth transition. In this newsletter we will present an overview of the wealth of activities promoting children’s rights in the EU and beyond in the past months. Many of our readers are also contributors to the activities developed to the benefit of child rights and this newsletter is dedicated to them. Please note that our next newsletter will be dedicated to child participation. So if you have any interesting activity or publication that you wish to share with our audience, please let us know and we’ll be happy to insert it next time. As always, we can be contacted via EC-CHILD-RIGHTS@ec.europa.eu

Call for Tenders for the Establishment, Management and Coordination of the EU Children’s Participation Platform (27/01/2022)

The call for tender for setting up the Platform on child participation is now open. Please check the details in the links below and don't miss the deadline: 15 March at 12:00. The purpose of the contract is the establishment, management and coordination of an EU Children’s Participation Platform, including the web content management of the related IT platform. The EU Children’s Participation Platform (CPP) is one of the key actions that the Commission included in the EU Strategy on the rights of the child (2021).

Reminder: Call for expression of interest to participate to selected activities of the EU network for children’s rights (07/02/2022)

In the 2021 EU Strategy on the rights of the child, the Commission said it would set up a new EU Network for children’s rights. The network will support the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child. The network will be composed of Member State representatives, and will include in some of its activities, other relevant stakeholders. The activities of the network will include, among others, meetings, study and peer visits, research activities and training activities. Interested organisations are invited to notify their interest by filling the application form. Make sure to register by 7 February 2022 at the latest!

Don't forget: funding opportunities in the area of child rights (15/12/2021)

The calls for proposals under Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values programmes (Daphne and Rights of the Child) are still open! A dedicated webinar on the CERV-2022-DAPHNE call aimed to prevent and combat gender-based violence and violence against children will take place on 4 February at 10:00 online. Find the link for registration below.

Call for Proposals: 16M EUR funding for preventing and combatting CSA (16/12/2021)

The call for project proposals reflects the priorities of the EU strategy for a more effective fight against child sexual abuse and supports its implementation by providing funding in two areas, improving prevention of child sexual abuse and assistance to victims and developing the capacity to effectively fight child sexual abuse. The call is open for public bodies, non-profit entities and international organisations established in an EU country. Not-for profit, public bodies and international organisations established in a non-EU country can apply as co-applicants (with an EU-located entity in the lead). Private profit-making entities can also apply as co-applicants. The deadline for applications is 24 February 2022. All the information about eligibility criteria, general conditions and application process is available on the webpage:

EU funding opportunity on development of AI tools for classifying CSAM (24/01/2022)

The call for proposals for developing AI tools and technologies (including classifiers) to identify digital child sexual abuse material (CSAM) has now been launched. The aim is to support the analytical work of law enforcement agencies (LEAs) and INHOPE hotlines through building on existing infrastructures and processes. This project is part of the Commission’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme. The call will close on Wednesday, 5 April 2022. More information about the call can be found on the Funding & Tender Opportunities Portal.

Annual Report on Migration and Asylum 2020 (03/10/2021)

This report maps the most important developments in areas of migration and asylum and covers a wide range of migration and asylum topics including the protection of minors and other vulnerable groups. The report was prepared based on annual national reports on migration and asylum from 25 European Migration Network (EMN) National Contact Points (NCP’s). The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected migration trends and management. The number of legal migrants and asylum applicants arriving in the EU in 2020 fell dramatically compared to 2019. Asylum and migration management were affected with many countries using digital systems to process applications. Apart from COVID-19, the protection of asylum seekers and refugees, including minors and vulnerable groups remained an area of development at EU and national level.

Joint Research Centre reports on poverty and mindsets (12/01/2022)

In July 2021, the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission published the report "Poverty and Mindsets: How poverty and exclusion affect aspirations, hope and decisions and how to address it". The report looks at how being immersed in poverty and social exclusion for a prolonged period may affect how people consider themselves and their future, and how they act in relation to it. This report focuses on a less-studied obstacle – that is, how poverty and exclusion affect behaviour, aspirations, hope and agency, which can all be essential drivers to social mobility. Evidence suggests that the experience of poverty itself seems to contribute to the transmission of poverty to the next generation. The report gathers and summarises findings from behavioural studies, neuroscience, sociological and economic studies. Bringing together these diverse sources and scientific evidence can help to better understand this complex issue, and to identify countermeasures that may effectively address the problem.

International Day of Democracy (14/09/2021)

The statement takes stock of the progress we have made and where we need to go in order to ensure democracy is protected and respected. In particular, the statement recognizes the role young persons and teenagers are playing in calling for climate action and defending human rights. It highlights the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child as important in defining concrete actions that must be taken in order to empower children in the EU and across the globe.

CJEU Judgement in Case C-490/20 V.M.A v Stolichna obshtina, rayon ‘Pancharevo’ (25/01/2022)

On 14 December 2021 the Court of Justice issued an important ruling. The case concerned a child, who was a minor and a Union citizen, whose Spanish birth certificate designated as parents two persons of the same sex. In this case the Member State of which the child is a national - Bulgaria - is obliged to issue an identity card or a passport to that child without requiring a birth certificate to be drawn up beforehand by its national authorities. Th Member State of nationality is also obliged to recognise the document from the host Member State that permits that child to exercise, the child’s right to move and reside freely within the territory of the European Union with each of its parents.

European Court of Human Rights, R.B. v. Estonia, Application no. 2597/16 (22/06/2021)

In this decision the European Court of Human Rights highlights the importance of safeguarding children’s rights during both pre-trial investigations and trial. Safeguards must be in place, which take into account the particular vulnerabilities and needs of a child giving evidence. The ECtHR found Estonia in violation of Article 3 ( Prohibition of Torture) and 8 ( Right to respect of private and family life) of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) as the Estonian justice system failed to take into account the applicants particular vulnerability as a child victim of sexual abuse. The ECtHR referring to international standards found the Estonian procedure violated the ECHR as it did not take into account the particular vulnerability of the child and the corresponding need to afford effective protection of an alleged victim of sexual abuse. The Estonian justice system failed to be child-friendly in its strict application of procedural rules, as it did not provide any exceptions or adaptations for child witnesses. In reaching this conclusion, the court referenced international standards such as the Council of Europe Guidelines on Child Friendly Justice.

FRA Fundamental Rights Report 2021 (10/06/2021)

This report reviews major developments in fundamental rights in 2021, identifying both achievements and areas of concern. It presents the Fundamental Rights Agency’s (FRA) opinion on the developments, including a synopsis of evidence supporting its opinions. The report examines the rights of the child in Chapter 8. The report’s focus chapter explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented challenge to fundamental rights. The pandemic affected a wide range of rights and had a disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups. Chapter 8 of the report takes into account the COVID-19 pandemic impact specifically on the rights of the child and the rights of the child in general. In particular, the chapter focuses on COVID-19 exacerbating poverty, children’s rights in asylum and migration, and safeguarding children in judicial proceedings. The pandemic put in danger a number of fundamental rights of children contained in the EU Charter of Fundamental rights, including the right to education ( Article 14) and to the protection and care necessary for children’s well-being ( Article 24). FRA state in their opinions recommend steps to be take both by the European Commission and by member States in order to ensure, the fundamental rights of all children are protected and respected.

Free online course on runaways – the largest category of missing children in Europe (25/01/2022)

The course aims to improve understanding of runaways, equip professionals with the ability to detect and respond to behaviour before a child goes missing, and encourage trust between professionals and children upon their return. More details are included below.

My Rights, My Voice: Giving children the opportunity to express their own view on their rights (24/01/2022)

The EU Delegation to the Council of Europe and the Permanent Representations of Andorra and San Marino, had the pleasure to announce the winners of their joint video contest “My rights, my voice”. On 10th November 2021, in the context of the European Day on the Protection of Children against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse (18 November) and the World Day on the Rights of the Child (20 November), the five winning videos on the rights of the child were screened at the Palais de l’Europe in Strasbourg.

Alternative Care Training Project concluded (31/12/2021)

The Alternative Care Training or ACT project (January 2020 – December 2021) is a cooperation of Comissió Catalana d’Ajuda al Refugiat (Spain), International Rescue Committee (Italy) and Lumos Foundation (Bulgaria), coordinated by Nidos (the Netherlands) and is funded by the AMIF programme of the European Commission. ACT aimed to improve (access to) reception in alternative care arrangements for unaccompanied children aged 15-18 with a special focus on Bulgaria, Italy and Spain. The results of the project such as training programmes, situation reports on alternative care in the partner countries and a recommendation report can be found on the ACT webpage.

Training Materials on Access to Justice for Migrants by the International Commission of Jurists (12/01/2022)

In September last year, the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) published a set of training materials on access to justice for migrants. These materials are intended to provide background information and support to judges and lawyers when taking decisions on or defending the rights of migrants and refugees. The training materials provide easily accessible and updated set of international legal standards on access to justice for migrants. They include a specific focus on access to justice for migrant children and the protection of migrants’ right to family life.

5Rights Foundation launches new campaign- Twisted Toys- Toying with Children's lives (01/07/2021)

5Rights Foundation believes that children and young people’s rights must be embedded and upheld in the digital environment, by design and default. Twisted Toys, the new campaign launched by 5Rights Foundation aims to highlight the issues of the digital world for children’s rights using traditional and easily understandable examples. The examples situate the risks children can experience online in the offline world and are given in short, satirical videos. The aim of the campaign is to highlight the dangers and the lack of protection for children in the online world.

Terre des Hommes publishes "Children in Contact with the Law in Europe: Trends and Opportunities" (17/08/2021)

This report has found that in 33% of countries in Europe children above the minimum age of criminal responsibility can be prosecuted for offences committed while below the minimum age. The report and its attached country fact sheets present key trends and gaps that children in contact with the law currently face in Europe. The report focuses particularly on some topics including child-specific legislation, procedural safeguards and status offences. It contains a set of recommendations that aim to build skills and knowledge for professionals working with children in criminal proceedings, create child-centered policies and legislative frameworks and invest in robust monitoring of the situation of children in criminal proceedings.

Cycles of Exploitation: The Links Between Children’s Institutions and Human Trafficking (24/01/2022)

This Global Thematic Review examines the growing evidence of the links between the institutionalisation of children and human trafficking. It highlights how the relationship between the two compounds the harmful nature of both phenomena and offers insight into the global response needed. The report states that it is critical to understand these links so that interventions, advocacy and policies can be put in place to disrupt the systems and processes that negatively impact children’s lives.

Adoption from Care: International Perspectives on Children’s Rights, Family Preservation and State Intervention (12/01/2022)

Edited by Tarja Pösö, Marit Skivenes and June Thoburn, May 5 2021 This book explores how children’s rights are practised and weighed against birth and adoptive parents’ rights and examines how governments and professionals balance rights when it is decided that children cannot return to parental care. From different socio-political and legal contexts in Europe and the United States, it provides an in-depth analysis of concepts of family, contact, the child’s best-interest principle and human rights when children are adopted from care. Taking an international comparative approach to these issues, this book provides detailed information on adoption processes and shares learning from best practice and research across country boundaries to help improve outcomes for all children in care for whom adoption may be the placement of choice.

15/12/2021

Newsletter on the rights of the child - 06/09/2021

Newsletter on rights of the child No 3/2021 (13/12/2021)

Dear Readers, Welcome to this new edition of the Newsletter on the Rights of the Child. I would like to take this opportunity to say good-bye to all our readers and partners. These are my last days as Commission Coordinator for the Rights of the Child. As of January 2022, I will join DG JUST Programme and financial management Unit as Deputy Head of Unit, and will embark on my next professional adventure. In my new capacity, I will hopefully contribute to a better use of EU funds to achieve our policy objectives, and I will always strive for a stronger mainstreaming of child rights in EU policies and funding. We are finalising the recruitment of the next Coordinator, and we will certainly communicate their name and contact details to you all as soon as possible. Thank you for reading us, and for your support to all the initiatives we have launched over these past years. This Newsletter focuses on our funding opportunities for 2022, and on the new EU network for children’s rights. But keep watching this space: we have exciting new developments to come also in the New Year. And let me thank you also personally for the great support and cooperation – I truly enjoyed working with you all, and I do hope we will stay in touch. Warmest regards Valeria

Call for expression of interest to participate to selected activities of the EU network for children’s rights (13/12/2021)

In the 2021 EU Strategy on the rights of the child, the Commission said it would set up a new EU Network for children’s rights. The network will support the implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child. It will also boost the exchange of information, good practices and mutual learning among EU Member States, the Commission and relevant stakeholders working on the rights of the child. The network will be composed of Member State representatives, and will include in some of its activities, other relevant stakeholders. The activities of the network will include, among others, meetings, study and peer visits, research activities and training activities. Interested organisations are invited to notify their interest by filling the application form. The list of interested organisations if valid up to four years from the date of opening of this call for expression of interest. For each of the activities, DG JUST will decide whom to associate, by direct invitation based on information provided in the form, in addition to the Member State representatives.

Call for proposals to protect and promote the rights of the child (15/12/2021)

Next year the call for proposals will focus on the implementation of the first thematic area of the EU Strategy on the rights of the child: participation of children in political and democratic life. We are looking at proposals that will complement what the Commission will propose to happen at the European level with activities at local and national levels. We want to make child participation mechanisms (existing or to be created) stronger.

Call for proposals to prevent and combat gender-based violence and violence against children (15/12/2021)

In 2022, the call for proposals on preventing and combating gender based violence and violence against children will focus on five priorities, including two specifically on children: 1. Supporting and improving national data collection on violence against children, 2. Strengthening responses that prevent and support child victims of violence by reinforcing child protection systems at national and local level

Call for proposal: Promote capacity building and awareness on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights and activities on strategic litigation relating to democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights breaches (28/10/2021)

This call for proposals will protect, promote and raise awareness of fundamental rights by providing financial support to civil society organisations that are active at local, regional, national and transnational level in promoting and cultivating those rights. The proposals will aim at strengthening the protection and promotion of Union values and respect for the rule of law and contributing to the construction of a more democratic Union, democratic dialogue, transparency and good governance. The call has two priorities: 1. Capacity-building and awareness raising on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights 2. Activities on strategic litigation

Call for proposals for action grants to promote gender equality (15/12/2021)

This 2022 Gender Equality call, supporting the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025 aims at: • tackling gender stereotypes, including with a focus on youth, and in advertising and the media. • equal participation and representation of women and men in political and economic decision making

26/04/2021

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 26/04/2021

Newsletter on rights of the child No 2/2021 (23/04/2021)

Dear Readers, A month ago we celebrated the adoption of the EU Strategy on the rights of the child for years 2021-2024. Now, the strategy is available in all EU languages and soon the child friendly version of the strategy will be as well. We want to thank those of you who spread the news about the strategy and expressed their willingness to support its implementation. We very much count on that as we go along and create a child – centred and child – friendly culture in policy making. Now, sleeves up and back to work. We will keep you posted about progress on the implementation of the strategy.

2021 Call for proposals to protect and promote the rights of the child (20/04/2021)

This year, the call for proposals focuses on responding to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, by promoting ways to mainstream and embed children’s rights in the responses to this and any other emergency situations and contribute to the implementation of the actions put forward by the EU Strategy on the rights of the child. More details in the call document.

2021 Call for proposals to prevent and combat gender-based violence and violence against children (20/04/2021)

This year, the call for proposal focuses on early detection, prevention and protection of and/or support to women, children, young people and LGBTIQ victims or potential victims of violence, with specific attention paid to situations emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic. More information in the call document.

2021 call for proposals for action grants to promote judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters (09/03/2021)

The primary objective of this funding available under the Justice Programme is to promote cohesion in judicial cases and cooperation within the EU. Priority 1. Judicial cooperation in civil matters, refers among others to actions on "improving the situation of children involved in civil cases, e.g. through better procedures, case-handling and cooperation in family law areas such as parental responsibility, international child abduction and maintenance or issues relating to civil status of children."

DG JUSTICE Newsletter on funding opportunities & funded projects (23/04/2021)

Subscribe, if not done yet and get access to latest news about funding, consultations and projects co-funded by the European Commission, Justice and CERV programmes.

Art competition- My World without Pollution (23/04/2021)

Ahead of this year’s EU Green Week (https://www.eugreenweek.eu/), the European Commission is launching a call for artistic entries under the theme “My World without Pollution”, encouraging young artists to show what a pollution-free world can look like.

Have your say on: Cross-border family situations - recognition of parenthood (14/04/2021)

Parenthood established in one EU country may not be recognised in another. This can lead to problems when travelling or moving to another EU country, and can endanger a child’s rights derived from parenthood (e.g. on maintenance, succession). This initiative aims to ensure that parenthood, as established in one EU country, is recognised across the EU, so that children maintain their rights in cross-border situations, in particular when their families travel or move within the EU. The roadmap for this initiative is opened for consultations. Feedback will be taken into account for further development and fine tuning of the initiative.

Report on the state of implementation of the 2017 EC Communication on the protection of children in Migration (10/03/2021)

This report maps the progresses made by the Member States since the implementation of the 2017 Commission Communication on the protection of children in migration. The Communication aims at protecting all third-country national migrant children at all stages of migration to and within the EU. The report was prepared on the basis of national contributions from 26 EMN National Contact Points.

Learning Corner Newsletter - find your tool to learn about the EU (13/04/2021)

Subscribe to this newsletter to get updates about games, competitions and activity books to help children discover the EU in a fun way, in the classroom or at home. Or about studying or volunteering abroad. For teachers or parents, the learning Corner is a source of teaching material for all age groups, from inspirations for lesson plans, to networking opportunities with other schools and teachers across the EU.

Future of Syria storytelling video with children (29/03/2021)

The Syrian conflict has lasted for about 10 years now and has led Syrians to flee to other countries in the world to be safe. The video includes testimonies from three children, Mohanad, Maha and Sandra, which show their daily lives since the beginning of the conflict: Bomb attacks, the destruction of their homes, the obligation to leave their homes, precarious living conditions in tents exposed to flooding, cold or very high temperatures, the death of parents during airstrikes, and the impossibility of going to school. This is a strong example of how children’s rights are particularly affected in armed conflicts.

Get involved in 2021 Fundamental Rights Forum: Submit your proposal for a session (23/04/2021)

The 2021 Forum will be held online on 11-12 October. It will bring together leaders, decision-makers, civil society, artists and businesses. The forum will address two overarching topics: young people and Europe’s future and Europe’s recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. It will be a hybrid event: hosted from Vienna, linking live to European city hubs and other, entirely virtual, online sessions. Submit your proposal for a session by 30 April 2021.

Open call for video projects from children: My Rights, My Voice (13/04/2021)

The EU Delegation in Strasbourg and the Permanent Representations of Andorra and San Marino at the Council of Europe are launching a call for artistic video projects from children aged 10 to 17, reflecting children’s views on their own rights. Children should select one or several specific rights of the child which will be the focus of the video project.

UN CRC - General Comment n°25 on children’s rights in relation to the digital environment (02/03/2021)

At its 86th session, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child adopted its General Comment No. 25 (2021) on children's rights in relation to the digital environment. Digital technologies are both vital to children’s current lives and constantly evolving. Their importance is even increased in times of crisis during which they perform societal functions, such as education. Children are entitled to same rights offline and online. A terminology glossary, explanatory note and child-friendly version are also available.

A Guide – Children and the Global Compacts on Refugees and Migration. (22/04/2021)

The guide analyses the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) and the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) through a child rights lens and outlines the measures foreseen in these documents (the Global Compacts) for the protection of the rights of the child. It was developed to support people, organisations and agencies working to protect children on the move to make better use of the Global Compacts in their daily work, to the benefit of children. It seeks to be comprehensive in terms of content, so that it can be useful for a range of actors, whether governmental or nongovernmental. It is designed as an interactive self-learning tool that can be read in its entirety or by section. It outlines what is in the Global Compacts that is of relevance for children and the provisions for the implementation, monitoring and review of these frameworks. It also suggests ways of engaging with the implementation of the Global Compacts.

A tool to mainstream Child Rights in all development and humanitarian aid programmes and projects (23/04/2021)

The French coalition for international development and humanitarian aid, Groupe Enfance, includes 19 Child Rights NGOs. The checklist has been developed by Groupe Enfance to ensure that children’s rights are mainstreamed in all development and humanitarian aid projects. The checklist aims to provide a list of criteria to help professionals better understand and protect the rights of the child.

Latests in Child Protection by Child Protection Hub (04/03/2021)

Child Protection Hub is a regional initiative promoting better child protection in South East Europe. The newsletter of this new website covers a variety of topics: From restorative justice in cases involving child victims, the need for cross-sectoral work to protect children in conflict with the law, rights in child technology in the digital age.

Research: Voluntary Care in Ireland Study (2018-2021) (23/04/2021)

This research study is an inter-disciplinary project between social work (@UCCsocialwork, School of Applied Social Studies) and the School of Law and is located in the Children and Young People research cluster in ISS21 at University College Cork. The study examined the use of voluntary care in Ireland.

Navigating Irregularity: The Impact of Growing Up Undocumented in Europe (18/03/2021)

The report looks at key aspects of lives of undocumented children: Housing, access to services, income and socio-economic situation of households, interaction with residence procedures and enforcement of immigration legislation, as well as trauma often suffered, such as fear of detention or expulsion, or difficulties faced by undocumented children in accessing education.

Immigration detention in Europe: what safeguards for people with vulnerabilities (10/03/2021)

“Each year, more than 100,000 people are detained in Europe”. Based on this observation, the report then focuses on the often lasting consequences of detention on individuals. For example, children’s psychosocial development is affected. The report concludes by encouraging that definitions of vulnerability are based on an “open list” that takes into account the intersectional nature of vulnerabilities as well as those directly caused by detention.

Highlighting a new alert tool in times of crisis: the child helplines (25/09/2020)

The pandemic highlighted the need for a holistic view of the state of violence against children during a pandemic. The spread of COVID-19 has caused significant disruption to the family nucleus (internal sphere), but also to child protection services (external sphere), most of which are either suspended or slowed down. As a result, child helpline services are essential in times of crisis, as they remain operational even when physical interactions are limited.

CJEU Judgement in Case-603/PPU SS v MCP - Brussels IIa Regulation (24/03/2021)

If a child is habitually resident in a third State, the jurisdiction of the court shall be determined in accordance with the applicable international conventions, giving priority to the principle of proximity.

CJEU judgment in Case C-112/20 M.A.v. État belge; best interest of the child assessment (11/03/2021)

The CJEU ruled in M.A. v. État belge case saying that best interests of the child must be taken into account even in cases where the child is the indirect addressee of a decision, the direct person being his or her illegally staying parent, thereby avoiding his or her removal from the territory.

Decision on the merits, International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) v. Czech Republic (17/03/2021)

The European Committee of Social Rights decision: International Commission of Lawyers (ICJ) v Czech Republic, highlights the procedural rights of children under the age of criminal responsibility. The absence of procedural rights violates the right of children to social protection under Article 17 of the European Social Charter (1961).

26/03/2021

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 26/03/2021

Newsletter on rights of the child - Special edition (25/03/2021)

24 March 2021 was a big day for the rights of the child, for the European Commission and for the rights of the child team. The Commission adopted two policy documents that will push forward efforts to protect, support and empower children in the EU and beyond: the EU Strategy on the rights of the child and the European Child Guarantee. This strategy has been prepared for and with children. More than 10 000 children contributed to the strategy during consultation process that preceded the adoption. Children also worked on the child friendly versions of the Strategy, which are also accessible. Keep an eye on the newly updated website as it will be available in all EU languages in the coming weeks. A big thank you goes to all who contributed to the consultations and supported us. We still count on you, as the work has only started.

The EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child (24/03/2021)

The Strategy was adopted on 24 March 2021. Building on the work done so far, the strategy puts forward actions to better respond to current challenges and ultimately better protect children, promote their rights and empower them to participate in political and democratic life, both inside and outside the EU. It also aims to better mainstream children’s rights across Commission policies and services, improve cooperation between relevant actors and invest more in capacity building and specific training of professionals.

The child friendly versions of the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child (24/03/2021)

Children should have access to information provided in a child friendly way so they know what their rights are and, in this case, what the EU plans to do for them. That was our objective when working on the strategy. The Commission wants to lead by example for a meaningful child participation. The consultations with children in preparation of the strategy were only the beginning. The child friendly versions of the strategy are a continuation of the path that led to a strategy designed for and with children.

The European Child guarantee (24/03/2021)

Together with the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child, the European Commission adopted a proposal for a Council recommendation on a European Child Guarantee.. While the EU Strategy promotes and protect the rights of all children, the European Child Guarantee aims to break the cycle of poverty and promote equal opportunities by guaranteeing access to a set of key services for children in need (under 18 year old at risk of poverty or social exclusion).

26/02/2021

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 26/02/2021

Newsletter on rights of the child No 1/2021 (25/02/2021)

Dear Readers, Welcome to this first 2021 edition of the newsletter on the rights of the child. It is a very exciting year for our work, as we are finalising preparations for the adoption of the new EU Strategy on the rights of the child and the EU Child Guarantee. In this edition you can read about the consultations with more than 10.000 children that were conducted for these two important policy initiatives - with a big "thank you" to the child rights organisations who ran them. You will also find the outcomes of a study on child participation in EU political and democratic life and its accessible version prepared in cooperation with children. Next time - we get back to you with a new Strategy!

EU Strategy on the rights of the child - consultations with children - report (23/02/2021)

Over 10,000 children and young people participated in a consultation on the EU’s upcoming Child Rights Strategy and Child Guarantee. In summer 2020, the European Commission invited UNICEF, Eurochild, Save the Children, World Vision and Child Fund Alliance to support the European Commission’s work and consult children on the upcoming EU Strategy on the rights of the child and the EU Child guarantee. The results from these consultations are outlined in the report “Our Europe, Our Rights, Our Future” that was launched in a virtual event on 23 February 2021.

Study on child participation in EU political and democratic life (22/02/2021)

The Commission published a study on child participation in EU political and democratic life. The study looks at the situation in the EU and UK at national level, and in 10 countries at national and local level - with 12 case studies. In the course of this research, over 200 children and young people have shared their opinions and experiences in interviews and focus groups.

Give your feedback on how to improve learning materials for children about the EU (12/02/2021)

The European Commission commissioned a study to look at how to optimise learning materials on the EU for children aged 5 to 18. Its results will help the services developing such materials for children to better adapt to their target audiences’ needs, preferred channels, and specificities such as their location, socio-economic background, any disabilities, learning difficulties, etc.

Have your say - open public consultations on the gender-based and domestic violence initiative (08/02/2021)

The purpose of the consultation is to inform the Commission’s work on further measures for improved, coordinated prevention of and protection against this kind of violence.

Early Childhood Education and Care - inclusion and staff professionalisation (03/03/2021)

On 3 March 2021, European Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Mariya Gabriel, will launch a report on Early Childhood Education and Care in Europe focusing on inclusion and staff professionalisation.

New European Migration Network (EMN) Bulletin - section on unaccompanied children (04/02/2021)

The European Migration Network (EMN) is an EU network of migration and asylum experts who work together to provide objective, comparable policy-relevant information and knowledge on emerging issues relating to asylum and migration in Europe. EMN Bulletins are quarterly newsletters which provide an update on recent EU and national developments on migration and asylum as well as providing an overview of key statistics, EMN publications, events and developments.

European Migration Network (EMN) Inform on Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on voluntary and forced return procedures and policy responses (05/01/2021)

EMN Informs provide key findings and messages to policymakers on a specific topic, based on the results of information gathered and analysed by the EMN, for example, from reports and studies, or from ad-hoc queries. The report found that education for children subject to return decisions generally continued to be mandatory. Children in return procedures were entitled to the same provision as other children in relation to remote or online provision when schools closed during lockdowns. Some EU Member States provided additional equipment to facilitate access to education in centres for these children.

2021 - the International Year for the Elimination of Child Labour (21/01/2021)

While progress has been made to fight the child labour since the turn of the century, it has been far too slow. Now with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the level of child labour is increasing for the first time after over 20 years. There is an urgency to renew international commitments to eradicate child labour. The United Nations has declared 2021 the international year for the elimination of child labour. The Sustainable Development Goals specifically targets the ending child labour in all its forms by 2025 (SDG target 8.7). However, as we have seen, this is increasingly looking less likely. The solutions are known, it is the commitment and resources that need reinvigorating. For the European Commission, President Ursula von der Leyen has reaffirmed this engagement through a zero-tolerance policy on child labour.

CJEU judgement on the best interests of the child in return procedures (14/01/2021)

The Court of Justice of the European Union has established in its recent ruling that EU Member States must necessarily take into account the best interests of the child at all stages of the return procedure. The Court stated that before issuing a return decision in respect of an unaccompanied child, a Member State must verify that adequate reception facilities are available for the child in the State of return.

Latest news from DCI (25/02/2021)

Defence for Children International is a worldwide movement for children’s rights with National Sections and Associated Members active across the five continents. Each of DCI’s National Sections works on the child rights issues that are the most relevant to their respective national contexts.

KIND Europe - newsletter (25/02/2021)

Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) is the leading national organization advocating for the rights of unaccompanied migrant and refugee children. In 2008, KIND was founded by the Microsoft Corporation and UNHCR Special Envoy Angelina Jolie to address the gap in legal services for unaccompanied minors. Through strategic partnerships, we provide pro bono legal representation for refugee and migrant children across the country.

Report: Advancing Protection for Unaccompanied Children in Europe by Strengthening Legal Assistance (27/01/2021)

KIND and Child Circle’s report provides recommendations on how to protect unaccompanied children. At the heart of the recommendations is that free quality legal assistance is a central safeguard for the protection of unaccompanied children. To raise awareness of the key features of quality legal assistance for unaccompanied children, the report draws from national good practices, highlighting the experience of KIND in the United States and of its partners in Europe, while indicating priorities for future reform and engagement.

MINT project : Mentoring for integration of children affected by migration (23/02/2021)

The MINT project aims at supporting and facilitating the integration process of children, enhancing social relations and empowering both local youth and third-country national (TCN) children. The project specifically supports the integration of newly arrived children, including unaccompanied and separated children, paying particular attention to the gender-specific barriers to integration of girls and boys. This recording from the webinar will present the project activities (e.g. child-led awareness-raising and advocacy activities, language learning opportunities, etc.) and outputs of MINT with a focus on the peer-to-peer mentoring programme including the main challenges and lessons learnt during the two mentoring cycles from which over 140 migrant children and more than 110 local youth benefitted.

CRIN-Youth climate justice advisers (17/02/2021)

CRIN has invited youth climate activists around the world to help shape CRIN’s strategy on environmental issues for the next few years. It is a team of 12 advisers between the ages of 9 and 18 from different regions, backgrounds, experiences and who campaign on different environmental issues. This marks the first time CRIN will be collaborating with under-18s to this degree.

Meet CRIN's new sister - The Rights Studio (08/01/2021)

The Rights Studio is a new creative hub for people and organisations to engage on human rights issues affecting children, young people and future generations through the arts and other creative expressions. The Rights Studio was officially founded in September 2020 in Berlin, Germany. However its work and ideas have been around for some years now, under the auspices of CRIN.

Fighting child poverty in European cities (20/01/2021)

This research forms part of Eurocities’ broader initiative ‘Inclusive Cities for All’, which helps cities deliver the European Pillar of Social Rights at local level. This is the fourth survey conducted by Eurocities, following surveys in 2018 and 2019, which collected evidence from cities on policies relating to the principles of the European Pillar of Social Rights. This time the focus of the survey was on principle 11 on childcare and support for children. A Eurocities’ survey reveals that the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on children means these municipal resources are no longer sufficient, and child poverty is on the rise.

Sharing Hope & Building Bridges with Young Asylum seekers - Report on the workshop (04/01/2021)

The workshop aimed at building a bridge between children and youths with a migrant background living in Brussels, experts working on the field (Redcross and Fedasil centres), and civil society organizations advocating for their rights. You are invited to read about the workshop here.

22/12/2020

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 22/12/2020

Newsletter on rights of the child No 6/2020 (21/12/2020)

The year 2020 is almost finished. It has been a year of tremendous changes, challenges, adaptations, and feeling of unknown. Some of us revisited long forgotten hobbies, rediscovered walks, board games and baking. Others, experienced fear, solitude, depression. We are looking forward to 2021. For our team it means the adoption of the EU Strategy on the rights of the child and work on its implementation. Have a calm and relaxing end of the year. You will hear from us in 2021.

Open public consultations on the EU Strategy on the Rights of the child (09/12/2020)

The open public consultations on the EU Strategy on the rights of the child closed on 8 December. We received nearly 500 replies! Thanks to all who contributed.

A new Strategy to strengthen the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights in the EU (02/12/2020)

On 2 December 2020, the European Commission adopted its new Strategy to strengthen the application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights in the EU. The strategy proposes specific actions to ensure the effective application of the Charter by the Member States; empower civil society organisations, rights defenders and justice practitioners; foster the use of the Charter as a compass for EU institutions; and strengthen people’s awareness of their rights under the Charter. The strategy complements the European Democracy Action Plan and the Rule of Law report, illustrating the Commission's comprehensive approach to promoting and protecting the fundamental rights and values of the EU. Upholding fundamental rights is a vital tool in protecting children's rights. The strategy addresses contemporary challenges, such as digitalisation and the impacts of COVID-19, including the adverse implications on children's rights and further widening the inequality gap.

Strategy for judicial training in the European Union for the period 2021-2024 (02/12/2020)

The European Commission adopted a new strategy, setting operational objectives tailored for the needs of various justice professionals. It focuses on a broader target audience and a new geographical scope to address the new challenges in accordance with the needs of justice professionals. The Strategy mentions the specific needs of children that needs to be addressed in judicial training.

The Roadmap for the Victims’ Rights Directive - open for feedback (02/12/2020)

The European Commission published a Roadmap for the Evaluation of the Victims’ Rights Directive Directive (Directive 2012/29/EU). It is open for feedback until 30 December 2020. As part of the EU strategy on victims’ rights, this initiative will evaluate the Directive to assess to what extent it has achieved its objectives in terms of its implementation and practical application in EU countries. The new strategy aims to empower victims of crime and to work together for victims' rights. It also promotes an integrated and targeted EU approach to support victims with special needs, such as child victims.

European Youth Portal: New version comes with updated design and content (02/12/2020)

The European Youth portal aims to concentrate youth-related information in a single place, with content from the former Youth pages on Europa being migrated to the portal. Through the new page, young people in Europe can easily find information about the EU’s youth policy and programmes, ask questions and get in touch with youth support services in the programme countries.

CJEU judgement in infringement procedure launched by the Commission against Hungary (17/12/2020)

According to the judgement, Hungary has failed to fulfil its obligations under EU law in the area of procedures for granting international protection and returning illegally staying third-country nationals. In particular, restricting access to the international protection procedure, unlawfully detaining applicants (including families with children) for that protection in transit zones and moving illegally staying third-country nationals to a border area, without observing the guarantees surrounding a return procedure, constitute infringements of EU law.

The Rights of Child Human Rights Defenders Unpacked: The New Implementation Guide! (15/12/2020)

According to the United Nations, all children taking any kind of action to promote and protect human rights, including children’s rights, are defenders. The Implementation Guide was produced in cooperation with the Queen’s University of Belfast (prof. Laura Lundy), the CRC Committee and the UN Special rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Ms Mary Lawlor. The document aims to complement the existing commentary and advice on HRDs by clearly indicating the specific rights of children human rights defender (CHRDs) and identifying what is distinctive about children’s rights. It provides guidance as to what States, civil society organisations and others should do to ensure that children who exercise their right to defend human rights are not only allowed but empowered to do so and can do it without encountering breaches of their own rights and without unnecessary or disproportionate restrictions. A child-friendly version of this Guide is currently being developed by the Children’s Advisory Team of Child Rights.

Access to justice: the rights of the child and the environment (14/12/2020)

CRIN launched a new research on access to justice for children for their environmental rights. The project examines how the law can better protect children’s environmental rights, how children can access the courts in environmental cases and what remedies courts can impose to protect these rights. Using the findings of the research, the project will aim to push for the change needed to make children’s environmental rights enforceable.

First Years First Priority campaign (14/12/2020)

The campaign was launched on 15 December. It stands up for the rights of all children, with a particular focus on families and children who are at greater risk of discrimination and exclusion, such as children living in extreme poverty, children with disabilities, children at risk of entering, or in, alternative care, Roma and Traveller children, and migrant and refugee children. It aims to bring change for young children in Europe by: Building a community of ECD advocates at national and EU level; Raising awareness of ECD and collecting and disseminating a strong evidence base; Leveraging EU policies and funding to support reforms and public investment at national level.

Covid under 19 - children talking about the COVID-19 pandemic (09/12/2020)

In April 2020 Terre des Homme launched the initiative “Life Under Coronavirus”. Later, a global survey was launched to understand children’s experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic and their views on how they wish to get involved. The survey was designed with children, for children aged between 8 to 17 years available in 27 different languages alongside an easy to read version. It received an overwhelming response with more than 26,000 children participating worldwide.

Webinar - Ensuring a Gender-Based Violence education in Europe (07/12/2020)

The Gender ABC Project sets out to change children’s attitudes towards gender stereotypes & norms reinforcing gender-based violence and raising awareness of schools, families and communities to develop a supportive and safe environment for children to learn. In an online webinar, the Gender ABC partners presented the project, its results over 2 years and the learnings acquired through facing the multiple challenges of each country's context as well as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Stay tuned and receive regular newsletters from Child Protection Hub (03/12/2020)

As a professional community, the Child Protection Hub strive for a safe, nurturing and inclusive environment for all children. It has come together to provide child protection professionals with tools for working and developing, space for constant learning and communication and with an opportunity to become a part of a strong regional community of practice.

Annual report - Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland (30/10/2020)

Together with his team, the Children and Young People's Commissioner Scotland published its annual report (April 2019 to March 2020). The report covers a year where progress was made on key issues for children’s human rights in Scotland, including UNCRC incorporation, equal protection of children from assault and raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility.

Report - Guidance on judicial application of the EU Counter-terrorism Directive (18/11/2020)

ICJ and its partners published their report on investigation, prosecution and trial of terrorism cases. the report provides a comprehensive overview of the relevant international and EU legal standards and criminal law principles based on the EU Directive. The publication addresses the appropriate interpretation and application of the EU Directive in practice throughout investigation, prosecution and trial, consistently with international and EU human rights law and standards. The guidance discusses the rights of suspects in the criminal process and the specific needs of vulnerable groups, such as children. It underlines the best interests of the child a primary consideration, including when children are indirectly affected by proceedings.

Erasmus+ project on inclusion - Flexible to Scale up: A Peek into the TOY for Inclusion Play Hubs (17/11/2020)

The objective of TOY to Share, Play to Care is to scale up and embed in policy the TOY for Inclusion approach - an effective means of creating community-based early education and care (ECEC) initiatives that improve access to ECEC for marginalised young children, their transition to formal education and the capacity of their parents and professionals.

Rethinking care - Improving support for unaccompanied migrant, asylum-seeking and refugee children in the European Union (30/10/2020)

Lumos Foundation, in collaboration with the UNHCR, UNICEF and IOM, published its report that maps and assesses the forms of care provided to unaccompanied migrant, asylum-seeking and refugee children in six European Union Member States. The aim of the research is to inform policy and decision making, as well as promote further funding investments, towards integrated, child rights centred, family- and community-based care for these children.

DigiGen- literature review on information and communications technology (ICT) use across Europe (30/09/2020)

The working paper consists of two main parts: a literature review on the four main research areas DigiGen is about (family life, leisure time, education and civic participation) and an overview of existing databases in relation to ICT and the extent to which such data allows the analysis of children at-risk groups. DigiGen is funded under the Horizon 2020.

30/11/2020

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 30/11/2020

Newsletter on rights of the child No 5/2020 (24/11/2020)

Dear Readers, We welcome you warmly on a cold and grey day in Brussels. The season is changing, but the coronavirus is still around. Some changes can be observed compared to the first wave last Spring. In some countries, children have this time been asked what was their opinion about the safety measures, and more information has been delivered in a child friendly way – you can read more about it in the posts below. The impact of Covid-19 was discussed during the many events that took place on Friday 20 November, to celebrate the World Children’s Day. We link you to some of them in this edition of the newsletter. Last, but not least – some updates on our work on the Strategy. We are working at full speed to get the Strategy ready for Spring 2021. Together with eight leading child rights organisations we consulted children both within and outside the EU on the Strategy. We received more than 10.000 replies to the online questionnaire and more children were consulted in different forms. We gathered recommendations and opinions on the Strategy during the 2020 Forum on the rights of the child. We have also talked to the representatives of the national authorities from the EU Member States and to colleagues from the Commission services and agencies. We are still counting on your contribution to the online questionnaire that is available until 8 December. Don’t forget to have your say on the EU Strategy on the rights of the child.

EU Strategy on the rights of the child - Have your say! (26/10/2020)

The works on the EU Strategy on the rights of the child are in full speed. Contribute to the open public consultation. The questionnaire is available until 8 December. The Strategy is planned for adoption in Spring 2021.

REPORT from the 13th European Forum on the rights of the child: towards the EU Strategy on the rights of the child (27/11/2020)

The report from the 2020 European Forum on the rights of the child is available now. Between 29 September and 1 October 2020, more than 300 experts connected from all over the world to participate in an online, interactive event under the theme of this 13th edition: ‘Delivering for children: towards the European strategy on the rights of the child’.

World Children’s Day: Joint Statement by the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (20/11/2020)

Statement on the occasion of the World Children's Day on 20 November by the European Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The statement pointed out to serious and potentially long-term impact of Covid-19 pandemic on children's learning, well-being, development and protection. It also reminded about the latest EU policy initiatives, such as the newly adopted EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020-2024, the EU Strategy for a more effective fight against child sexual abuse and about the ones to be adopted next year - among others the EU Strategy on the rights of the child.

Learning Corner for children to stay tuned in EU-related matters (10/11/2020)

DG COMM's Learning Corner delivers up-to-date news and thematic materials for children and youth who are keen on following the latest European initiatives and know more about the European Union. It also has a section for teachers.

EU strategy for a more effective fight against child sexual abuse (24/07/2020)

The aim of the Strategy on a more effective fight against child sexual abuse is to provide an effective response to child sexual abuse. It provides for a framework for developing a strong and comprehensive response to these crimes, both in their online and offline form. It sets out eight initiatives to implement and develop the right legal framework, strengthen the law enforcement response and catalyse a coordinated multi-stakeholder action in relation to prevention, investigation and assistance to victims.

Assessment List for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence (ALTAI) puts children in focus (17/07/2020)

Through the Assessment List for Trustworthy AI (ALTAI), AI principles are translated into a checklist that guides developers and deployers of AI in implementing such principles in practice. The AI HLEG notes that prior to self-assessing an AI system with this Assessment List, a fundamental rights impact assessment should be performed with a particular focus on the potential impact of AI on children to ensure that their best interests are taken into account, the potential harm is monitored, addressed and rectified.

Relocation of unaccompanied children from Greece to Portugal and Finland (08/07/2020)

On 7 and 8 July, 49 unaccompanied children were relocated from Greece to Portugal and Finland as part of a scheme organised by the European Commission and the Greek Special Secretary for Unaccompanied Minors, in partnership with UN agencies and the European Asylum Support Office. As part of the Action Plan for immediate measures to support Greece, the Commission proposed to relocate up to 1,600 children as part of a scheme supported by EASO, IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF.

Fundamental rights implications of COVID-19 (27/11/2020)

On this page FRA publishes various reports and studies that investigate the impact of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on fundamental rights in the EU.

Animation on Age Assessment for Children (20/11/2020)

Developed by EASO in partnership with the Council of Europe, this video animation intends to inform children and young persons about the process of an age assessment, their rights and obligations, in a child-friendly manner. In addition to English, French, Spanish and Portuguese, the animation will be available into Arabic, Pashto, Dari, Tigrinya, Somali & Punjabi.

Eurostat data on child population across Europe (15/10/2020)

Eurostat, in collaboration with the European Commission, has released its data on child and youth population in each EU Member States and neighboring countries. There are 81.5 million children across the EU, which is the 18.2% of the whole population.

CJEU ruling on the date to be taken into account, when determining whether a family member of a sponsor is a ‘minor child’ (16/07/2020)

In line with the European Commission's position, the Court ruled that the date to be taken into account, in order to determine whether a family member of a sponsor is a ‘minor child’ is the date of submission of the application for entry and residence (and not the date on which a decision was given on that application by the competent authorities of that Member State). The Court also confirmed that the action against the rejection of an application for family reunification of a child cannot be held inadmissible on the sole ground that the child has reached majority during the court proceedings.

Selection of reports and studies on the impact of Covid-19 on children's lives (27/11/2020)

"I think this survey is a fantastic idea, thank you for taking the time to listen to us, because I feel that our age category is being forgotten in times of corona, so thank you again." said a 16 years old girl who participated in a survey done in Flanders, Belgium. Read more about this survey, other reports and studies documenting the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the rights of the child.

Missing Children Europe’s annual “Lost in Migration” conference is coming up (03/12/2020)

Missing Children Europe will hold its annual “Lost in Migration” conference on 3, 8 and 15 December 2020 online. It aims to raise awareness about the issue of missing children in migration and mobilise policy makers to take actions. In past years, some of Missing Children Europe's recommendations made it into the European Institutions strategies and resolutions. Check out last year's conference and stay tuned for updates for 2020. The conference will be organised by young migrants themselves. Donations are welcome, all the proceeds of Wyvern Lingo's song Brutal Lottery will go to funding the conference.

Voices of Children and Young People Around the World (25/11/2020)

The new report presents the data received from child helpline members around the world relating to 2019. This year, the report looks at some of the information that has started to become available in 2020 on how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted children and young people, and the work of child helplines.

Child Compass 2030: Shaping a healthy society, environment and economy fit for children (20/11/2020)

“Child Compass 2030" was published on 20 November to celebrate the World Children's Day. The publication brings a family perspective to policy-making based on the interrelated well-being of children and of their parents. The Child Compass 2030 calls on the European institutions to invest in child well-being and to shape a healthy society, environment and economy fit for children.

Conference-Children's right to be heard. We're talking; Are you listening? (20/11/2020)

This event explored the importance of children’s participation in securing their rights, with a special focus on the impact of Covid-19 on the rights of the child. Programme sessions included comments and observations from children and youth, an interactive child-led panel, remarks from high-level actors, and video statements from children around the globe. Vice-President of the European Commission, Dubravka Šuica, spoke at the opening of the event. Feedback from children during the event will be incorporated in a new Joining Forces policy brief to be released in January, titled We’re Talking, Are You Listening?

Reflection paper: "Putting children's rights at the heart of decision-making in cases involving children on the move: gathering momentum in Europe" (20/11/2020)

In this paper, the European Child Rights Helpdesk partners share case experience and key developments in their countries. The report identifies four foundation stones to ensure a robust and fair system of decision making to fulfil the rights of children on the move. This paper presents the common agenda for change to ensure a robust and fair system that takes the rights of children on the move into account in administrative and judicial proceedings. It also provides recommendations on how the EU can play an important role in gathering momentum for progress, in particular through the ongoing reform of the European migration and asylum system and the upcoming EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child.

ENOC - 24th annual meeting and Newsletter (16/11/2020)

The 24th annual meeting of ENOC took place on 16 and 17 November 2020 online. It was dedicated to discuss child rights impact assessment (CRIA). "CRIA is a process, tool and report which supports a systematic assessment and communication of the impact of a proposal or measure on the rights, needs and interests of children and young people. CRIA focuses on how children's rights may be affected by the decisions and actions of governments, institutions and others in the areas of law, policy and practice." The Newsletter contains useful information and announcements from the network itself, as well as updates on European and international activities in the field of the rights of the child. It also provides updates on ENOC members’ activities and collects the latest relevant publications.

Implementing the Global Compact on Refugees for Children: Examples of child-focused work (07/10/2020)

The Initiative, which brings together over 30 civil society and philanthropic organisations, has produced its new publication. The Initiative sets out to ensure that children’s rights are at the heart of the two global compacts on migration and on refugees in practice and to create a continuum of care, protection and support for all migrant and refugee children. Through this new publication it aims to support governments, within and outside of Europe, in the implementation of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) in a way that is child and gender sensitive.

ESN newsletter (27/08/2020)

The mission of ESN is to advance the exchange of knowledge in public social services in partnership with health, education, housing, employment and social inclusion to benefit people and communities through improved policy and practice.

Innovative application to find missing children (28/07/2020)

Missing Children Europe launches its ChildRescue app, an innovative application in Belgium and Greece (other European countries will follow) calling for the public to contribute to finding missing children in Europe. ChildRescue is an innovative platform to effectively reduce the time it takes to find a missing child. It further helps resolve the disappearance of children in migration fleeing to Europe.

On-line training on gender-based violence affecting children and youth on the move (23/07/2020)

ChildHub Academy has opened the online course within the framework of the Building Relationships through Innovative Development of Gender-Based Violence Awareness in Europe (BRIDGE) regional project. The course is designed for professionals who come into contact with children and youth on the move. It focuses on building the knowledge and capacity to prevent, identify, and respond to gender-based violence (GBV). The course is free and self-paced and available in English, Dutch, French, Greek and Romanian. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion from ChildHub.

New Missing Alert App in Greece (16/07/2020)

The new free mobile application Missing Alert App is now available to the public, actively supporting the quick recovery of missing people in Greece. The application enables all citizens to contribute to the search of missing people in real time. Furthermore, it may be used to protect relatives – children, as well as adults – who run a high risk of going missing, thus broadening the social circle of solidarity and support. The app is managed by the specialized team of the organization The Smile of the Child, which is responsible for any information, evaluating it to make the most of the potential for the immediate recovery of the missing person.

Relocations of unaccompanied children from Greece, call for further action and solidarity (08/07/2020)

IOM, UNHCR, and UNICEF welcomed the relocations of 49 unaccompanied asylum-seeking and migrant children from Greece to Portugal and Finland that happened during the summer. The 49 children relocated to Portugal and Finland are boys aged 12-17. Forty-two are from Afghanistan, 4 from Egypt, and one from The Gambia, Palestine, and Iran respectively.

The FYDO (Facility Dogs Europe) Project: a coordinated effort to train and place facility dogs in order to support victims (27/11/2020)

The goal of the FYDO Project is to establish a facility dog service to support victims throughout their participation in criminal proceedings. The development and implementation of a facility dog service further aims at improving the participation of victims in justice processes and the quality of victim interventions and testimonies.

16-year-old girl becomes the Finnish Prime Minister for one day (08/10/2020)

Finnish Prime Minister Sanna Marin participated in the Girls Takeover event organised by Plan International on 7 October. For one day, the Prime Minister’s seat was taken over by a 16-year-old girl. In the Girls Takeover, which is part of the celebration of the UN’s International Day of the Girl, girls around the world step into the shoes of leaders in different sectors of society.

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) is being incorporated into Scottish law (01/10/2020)

The First Minister announced a UNCRC Incorporation Bill as part of Scotland's 2020/21 Programme for Government. This Bill looks to put the UNCRC into Scots law to the maximum extent possible. The act is expected to bring a cultural change and an increased level of accountability of Scottish authorities when applying law that affects children.

Worlds of Influence Understanding What Shapes Child Well-being in Rich Countries (12/09/2020)

As part of the Innocenti Report Card series, the report card compares children’s well-being across rich countries. Through a multi-level approach, it shows that children’s well-being is influenced by children’s own actions and relationships, by the networks and resources of their caregivers, and by public policies and the national context. The report calls on countries to step up efforts to realise the rights of all children.

Publication: Safeguarding Children's Rights in Immigration Law (19/08/2020)

The book presents a compilation of scientific papers presented during the conference ‘Safeguarding Children’s Rights in Immigration Law’, organised by the Institute of Immigration Law and the Department of Child Law of Leiden Law School, at Leiden University in November 2018. It shows the diversity of issues related to immigration and children, including family reunification, detention, participation, human trafficking and the rights of siblings in the context of migration, as well as the significance of regional legal systems and infrastructures for the protection of children on the move.

Inside the city run by children (17/08/2020)

Every two years, for a few summer weeks, children run their own show. Filling government roles, running businesses, building structures, and talking politics, kids participate in what’s known in Germany as a spielstadt, or play city. The project offers children a chance to better understand and participate in the functions of a city, while also allowing them the freedom to rethink what a city can be.

DigiGen - a new project looking at the impact of ICT on children and on their family life. (08/07/2020)

DigiGen, a Horizon2020 research project has produced a new literature review on children's ICT use and its impact on family life. The projects examines the impacts of ICT on children and on their family life. It points out how adequate parental mediation and essential digital competencies can help to mitigate the adverse effects of children’s and young people’s online activities.

Global Status Report on Preventing Violence Against Children 2020 (18/06/2020)

The report looks at countries’ progress towards the SDGs aimed at ending violence against children. It collates inputs from over 1000 decision-makers in 155 countries who assessed their violence prevention status against the evidence-based approaches. The report shows that while many of the participating countries are taking some action, government officials from these same countries acknowledge that their efforts are clearly insufficient to achieve the SDG targets. The report concludes with recommendations for boosting INSPIRE implementation efforts and accelerating national progress.

26/10/2020

Newsletter on the rights of the child update - 26/10/2020

Newsletter on rights of the child - Special edition (23/10/2020)

Dear Readers, The Newsletter on the Rights of the child took a break, but we didn’t go on holidays. We worked quite hard on the 13th European Forum on the rights of the child that took place almost one month ago. We have been also occupied with the consultations on the EU strategy on the rights of the child. In this special edition of the newsletter, we bring you some information about the Forum and the Strategy.

13th Forum on the Rights of the child (26/10/2020)

Over three mornings and one afternoon, between 29 September and 1 October, more than 300 participants connected from all over the EU (and beyond) to this first digital edition of the EU Child Rights Forum. They listened the three plenary session, three keynote speeches and participated in four workshops.

EU Strategy on the Rights of the child: children - have your say! (26/10/2020)

Online consultation questionnaire for children between 11 and 18 - OPENED ONLY UNTIL 30 OCTOBER! This questionnaire is available in 20 languages and aims at bringing voices of children (living also in non-EU Member States). The questionnaire is available in Albanian; Bulgarian; Dutch; English; Finnish; French; Danish; Icelandic; Italian; German; Greek; Hungarian; Lithuanian; Polish; Portuguese; Romanian; Serbian; Slovenian; Spanish; Swedish; Several rights of the child organisations (UNICEF, EuroChild, Save the Children, World Vision International and Child Fund Alliance) have joined forces to develop this questionnaire. Other organisations (SOS Children’s Villages International, Defence for Children International and Terre des Hommes) are running targeted consultations with children.

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