This article describes how Pakistan’s heavy reliance on institutional care (such as orphanages) is both misguided and harmful, emphasizing that most children placed in these settings are not true orphans but are separated from families due to poverty and social pressures. It highlights extensive evidence that institutionalization undermines children’s emotional and developmental well-being and points to weak regulation and oversight of care facilities, which can expose children to further risks.

This UNICEF article highlights the Sri Lankan government’s endorsement of the Global Charter on Children's Care Reform.

This study of children in residential care in Pakistan finds that perceived institutional neglect is strongly linked to attachment insecurity, emotional dysregulation, and conduct problems, with attachment insecurity acting as a key mediating factor. The study highlights the importance of enhanced caregiver training, emotional support mechanisms, and the establishment of nurturing and stable environments within residential institutions to promote children’s psychological well-being and social adjustment.

The Vanam Vasapadum initiative evaluated an arts-based, trauma-informed social-emotional learning program for children in institutional care in Tamil Nadu, finding significant improvements in self-esteem and psychological well-being over three years. Both quantitative and qualitative results highlight that creative, holistic interventions can enhance emotional regulation, resilience, and social skills among vulnerable adolescents, suggesting strong potential for broader mental health promotion.

This article examines how, years after the Covid-19 crisis, many children in India who lost one or both parents continue to struggle due to gaps in government support systems.

The article reports that the ongoing US-Israeli war in the Middle East is having a severe and long-lasting impact on children across the region, with hundreds killed and thousands injured and over a million displaced, particularly in Lebanon, Gaza

This study assessed the physical health status of children residing in orphanage homes in Lucknow district, India. It found while most had normal nutritional status, many faced challenges, including high school dropout rates, signs of micronutrient deficiencies, and poor oral hygiene.

Over the past year, the Leadership Dialogue Series, hosted by Miracle Foundation India and India Alternative Care Network (IACN), has brought together leaders from government, civil society, academia, youth, philanthropy, and the private sector to reflect on how systems can better strengthen families and prevent the unnecessary separation of children. As they conclude the 2025-26 series, the 10th edition of Leadership Dialogues will focus on a critical question: How do we know if family strengthening efforts are truly working?

This article argues that poverty is a major driver of family separation in Pakistan, forcing many parents to place their children in orphanages or care institutions not out of choice, but as a survival strategy.

This report examines the transition of young people aging out of institutional care into independent adulthood. It highlights how many care leavers face significant challenges after turning 18, including limited access to education, employment, and stable housing, as well as a lack of life skills and supportive social networks.