Child-friendly tools for migrant children
by Catherine MALLET
ECPAT (whose mission is to fight against the commercial sexual exploitation of children) have recently shared with us their new publication of child-friendly materials to inform migrant children about their rights, more specifically in Belgium, France, Germany, The Netherlands and the UK. In close collaboration with children, they created a video and a leaflet. Both have been translated in 13 languages. They provide information about access to a guardian, lawyer, education, medical care, etc. as well useful addresses to seek help. A small part is also dedicated to human trafficking.
These tools have been created in the framework of the ReACT projet (Reinforcing Assistance to Child victims of Trafficking). The aim of the project is to ensure effective access to justice and the right to be protected in legal procedures for child victims of trafficking in EU Member States. Specific focus is set on the training of guardians and lawyers.
In January, they also published a report « Better support better protection: steps lawyers and guardians can take to better identify and protect trafficked children ».
ECPAT International have also developed a « Bill of Rights for Child Victims of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse ». One of the major barriers to children accessing justice is a low level of awareness of their rights. This document provides information in a child-friendly manner on the right to effective access to justice and remedies. 10 specific rights have been highlighted. For the professionals wishing to use this tool, a Q&A has also been created. Materials are available in French, English, Spanish and Russian.
Tags: Europe