Promising practices to promote best interests of children in international migration
International Social Service Transnational casework, advocacy and research based on international standards (network in more than 120 countries) Since 1924 working with this group of children (over cases/year) Legal Basis – UN-Conveniton on the Rights of the Child and its’ protocols – UN Alternative Care Guidelines – The Hague Conventions, such as the 1996 Hague Child Protection Convention
ISS’ aspirations 1) Establish a strengthened cooperation and communication mechanisms among all stakeholders; 2) Identify and implement durable and appropriate care solutions based on a well-established socio-legal expertise; 3) Increase awareness about the safeguard foreseen by the Alternative Care Guidelines and the 1996 Hague Convention by developing practical tools and undertaking specific research studies.
Aspiration 1: Develop and strengthen cooperation and communication mechanisms Joint efforts to promote cooperation and communication – «The 3 Cs»: cooperation, communication and compliance – West African Network Joint efforts for family tracing across borders and long - term planning – ISS distinct know-how – Spanish Red Cross (ISS correspondent) – ISS Australia
Aspiration 2: Find appropriate care solutions for refugee children, UASC or displaced children in accordance with their best interests The child’s right to be heard – DCI Italy (ISS correspondent): contribution to EU Guidelines and to IMPACT initiative
Considering international kinship family care – Embedded policy through ISS network – Precise procedure foreseen by the 1996 HC (arts. 33 and 23- 2f) Preliminary consultation Submission of report on the child (reasons for placement) Necessary consent for placement – Several advantages for the child – Positive results so far (CFAB-ISS UK; ISS Australia)
Aspiration 3: Capacity building and training for professionals to adequately take care of children Develop practical tools for professionals – ISS Switzerland Provide specific training modules for professionals – ISS USA Awareness raising campaigns and specific research studies – ISS/IRC: Moving Forward Handbook and Monthly Review – RELAF – Portal MIGRAR
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