This partnership is now expanding to include Kosovo, Montenegro, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. As of this year, the NGO European Disability Forum (EDF) has joined the partnership.
European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Commissioner Johannes Hahn said: ”We believe that this partnership can make a real difference to the life of children in the region. We rely on UNICEF’s and EDF’s expertise and knowledge to influence policies that have an impact on children who are victims of violence and children with disabilities. At the same time, it is crucial to reach out to civil society and grass-root organizations working on child protection and to promote children inclusion in societies.
“Therefore, a large part of the funding will be devoted to support small civil society organizations to achieve real change and sustainable improvements of children’s daily life and future perspective.”