The Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children's next report, to be presented to the Human Rights Council in March 2027, will focus on “the promotion of family- and community-based care as alternatives to institutionalization of children”.
Marking the twentieth anniversary of the United Nations Study on Violence against Children (A/61/299), the report will also aim to build on the momentum generated by the Global Pathfinding Alliance on Ending Violence Against Children and the Global Charter on Children's Care Reform. This is an exciting opportunity to provide input into the report and also for joint advocacy at the Human Rights Council in 2027. This will be part of our discussion at the next WG meeting.
The SRSG-VAC’s office is inviting short written submissions (maximum 1–2 pages) drawing on organizations’ experience, research, advocacy, and engagement with children and families, highlighting global, regional, or national trends, progress achieved, remaining challenges, and key recommendations related to preventing family-child separation and advancing every child's right to grow up in a family environment. They would particularly welcome information on promising practices and evidence related to deinstitutionalization and care reform, family strengthening and prevention services, the expansion of family- and community-based care, support for children with disabilities and their families, and the integration of these issues into development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding efforts. The SRSG’s office encourages submissions reflecting the perspectives and lived experiences of children, young people, families, and caregivers, where appropriate. Submissions can also identify emerging trends, evidence of impact, significant barriers, and priority actions needed to accelerate the transition away from institutional care. Sharing of information on relevant research, data, case studies, and examples of good practice and measurable results is also encouraged. Submissions may be sent to srsg-vac@un.org by 30 September.