On 9 December 2019, in Belgrade, Serbia, the Office of the Special Representative on migration and refugees launched a new publication “Promoting child-friendly approaches in the area of migration: standards, guidance and current practices” in co-operation with the Council of Europe office in Belgrade and UNICEF Serbia. The publication has been developed by the Office of the Special Representative as a result of actions identified in the Council of Europe Action Plan on Protecting Refugee and Migrant Children in Europe (2017-2019). The compilation is structured in four comprehensive themes: entrance and identification, child-friendly asylum and migration processes, special protection measures, and durable solutions. The purpose of the publication is to serve as inspiration for member states that are in the process of expanding good and promising examples to consistent practices.

“Refugee and migrant children remain exposed to particular and heightened risks. These vulnerable young people have often experienced great hardship and trauma in their countries of origin and during migration. This publication gives practical and procedural guidance spanning from identification and registration upon arrival to advice on taking care of children’s specific needs”, said the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Marija Pejčinović Burić.

The publication is available in English, and the French version is going to be available in January 2020. It is possible to download the compilation here or receive printed copies by contacting the publications unit.