This document emphasizes that children belong in families and communities, and that placing any child in an institution should be the very last resort. Institutionalisation – no matter how well intentioned – hinders intellectual, physical, emotional and social development. The younger the child and the longer the time spent in institutions, the greater the damage. Children in institutions are deprived of the opportunities to develop their potential, and in many cases, they are deprived of their most fundamental rights.
This document urges a shift in focus from institutions to support for families and family-style alternatives. Reform of child protection in the region is no longer seen as the sole responsibility of governments. Communities, NGOs, public and private agents, and national and international actors increasingly recognize that they have a role to play, and their participation is vital.
©NGO/UNICEF Regional Network for Children (RNC)
