This paper was prepared by Peter Evans for the 2nd Child Protection Forum for Central Asia on Child Care system reform in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan from 12-14 May 2009. Child protection, says the paper, is largely conceptualised as an inter-connected and integrated system of laws, regulations, policies, procedures, capacities, systems and services that together aim to protect children. The inter-connectedness of those components requires attention to be focussed on reforming each component simultaneously. This background paper draws attention to the reforms to be made to the important component of gatekeeping access to services. The paper draws attention to critical linkages to relevant legal, policy and procedural reforms and the reform of services to support children and families.
