Europe

In some countries in Europe, the fragile economic, social and political context makes children particularly vulnerable. Through our regional and national projects, we aim to protect children who are victims or at risk of abuse, those affected by migration, or in contact with the law.

67,560 children benefited from our services in Europe in 2019 Sharing is caring!

11,630 child protection professionals were trained in 2019 Sharing is caring!

6,880 parents received our support in 2019 Sharing is caring!

Our programmes in the region

Child Protection

Tdh supports countries in developing and strengthening comprehensive and well-coordinated child protection systems. We raise the capacities of actors working for the well-being of children and the protection of their rights. Regionally or locally, our projects favour the participation, empowerment and resilience of children and young people, particularly through mental health and psychosocial support interventions such as movement, games and sport activities and self-led art initiatives. We also mobilise communities and educate families to create safe and nurturing environments for children and young people.

Children and Youth in Migration

Children in Europe are affected by migration in many ways. Whether they are on the move, returned to their home country or are left behind by migrating parents, we make sure that they are protected and treated equally. Our projects support integration and provide educational opportunities, as well as safe spaces where children can play and rest. Together with our partners, we help refugee children and their families with emergency assistance and information. Our team advocates for child-friendly migration policies on a European and international level, while empowering children and young people to claim their rights through participation in campaigns such as Destination Unknown.

Access to Justice

We encourage states in Europe to provide effective access to justice for children in contact with the law. We support the implementation of non-custodial measures for children and of stronger procedural safeguards. With our partners, we promote the use of restorative justice processes in cases involving children, either as victims or suspects/offenders. Through innovative methodologies, we engage with children to ensure that we understand their views. At regional level, we facilitate the sharing of best practices and learning, awareness-raising and advocacy for child-friendly justice. We also support the creation of the Barnahus multi-disciplinary service that provides care for child victims and witnesses of violence and abuse.

Key projects

Regional Child Protection Hub for Southeast Europe

The Child Protection Hub is a network for child protection professionals in Southeast Europe.

i-RESTORE: Protecting child victims through restorative justice

Through the project i-RESTORE, Tdh and partners promote the use of restorative justice processes in cases involving child victims of crimes and strengthen the capacities of justice professionals.

BRIDGE: Building Gender-Based Violence Awareness in Europe

Through the BRIDGE project (Building Relationships through Innovative Development of GBV Awareness in Europe), Tdh and partners are strengthening the response to this issue in EU countries and sensitise children on how to better protect themselves against the gender-based violence (GBV).