The purpose of this report is to document the levels of child abandonment and de-institutionalization as an indicator of the quality of social transformation during the transition decade (1990-2000). The comparative advantage of this report is the scope and quality of the data on which results are based. The findings presented are drawn from empirical data collected from leagans/placement centers in 10 counties. Non-personal identifiable information on over 21,000 children in leagans between 1987 and 2000 was transcribed from register archives. Information on each child includes the date of birth, date of entry in and date of exit out of the leagan, destination upon exit, and reason for admission in leagan. Analysis of these data reveals detailed trends in child abandonment and deinstitutionalization not only within the decade of reforms, but also compared to pre-transition levels.
The following presentation is oriented towards policymakers, experts in non-governmental organizations, local authorities, and other stakeholders in Romania’s child welfare reform. The information is showcased in a series of figures so that distinct topics may be selected independently and used to facilitate more in-depth discussion.
This report has certain limitations. Because its main objective is to document the impact of child welfare reform, details regarding specific programs are absent. The astute reader will interpret the data in reference to his or her experiences. The findings are expected to challenge, reinforce or enhance the knowledge that child welfare authorities have accumulated.
©USAID
