In January 2025, U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy launched an initiative to transform the lives of all children globally, so that they are cared for in families and free of violence, exploitation and other harmful practices.
Governments, civil society, faith groups, and individuals with lived experience of care systems are calling on world leaders to work together to ensure all children are growing up in a safe, nurturing and loving family environment.
Together we aim to:
- strengthen families and prevent unnecessary separation
- ensure safe, family-based alternative care
- end the use of institutions for children around the world
The Global Charter on Children’s Care Reform is a call for world leaders to act together to:
- uphold the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
- invest in families, children, care leavers, and inclusive services
- end violence against children and harmful practices like orphanage tourism
The Global Charter is open for signature by ALL national governments.
Charter signatories are encouraged to:
- demonstrate leadership by implementing the Charter’s objectives and commitments in ways that reflect national priorities and local realities
- join a global movement of governments working together to drive transformative change, amplifying your country’s voice and influence on the world stage
- inspire and be inspired across countries by sharing experiences, progress, and lessons learned, helping shape more effective interventions and investments around the world
- define the country’s own priorities and commitments to advance family care for all children within its national context
- participate in periodic learning events and exchanges to showcase their progress and to learn from peers. While there is no mandatory financial contribution, countries are encouraged to mobilise the necessary resources to deliver on their commitments
While only governments can sign the Global Charter, civil society organisations at all levels and inter-governmental bodies at the regional and global levels are strongly encouraged to formally endorse it to demonstrate their support and active engagement in this global movement.