The International SOS Children's Villages meeting, held in Tunis under the theme "Every child deserves a home," concluded its second day with the adoption of the "Tunis Declaration" by member associations. The declaration outlines strategic priorities for the next three years, focusing on enhancing governance, supporting financial independence, and developing programs to protect children.
SOS Children's Villages is a leading international organization caring for children deprived of parental care, present in 137 countries and territories worldwide. The meeting, attended by representatives from 28 member associations in West, Central and North Africa, aimed to address the challenges faced by children in the region. According to estimates, 35 million children in Africa lack family care, and over 70% of African countries lack comprehensive policies and legislation on alternative care.
The Tunis Declaration identifies six key areas of focus: strengthening institutions, financial independence, program effectiveness, regional coordination, monitoring mechanisms, and advocacy. The declaration calls for the establishment of management boards in 18 associations by 2028 and the creation of a regional resource mobilization team. Member associations also committed to enhancing coordination and advocacy to protect children and increase impact.
The adoption of the Tunis Declaration reflects the shared commitment of SOS Children's Villages member associations in West, Central and North Africa to enhance governance, increase impact, and speak with a unified voice within the international organization. The declaration will be presented at the next General Assembly of SOS Children's Villages International in October 2026.
Currently, only 10 out of 28 member associations in the region have established management boards. The Tunis Declaration addresses this gap by setting a clear target for the establishment of these boards. Additionally, the declaration emphasizes the need for diversified funding sources and enhanced program effectiveness.
The International SOS Children's Villages meeting in Tunis brought together representatives from 28 member associations in West, Central and North Africa. The meeting provided a platform for discussion on the challenges faced by children in the region and the role of SOS Children's Villages in addressing these challenges.
The Tunis Declaration is a significant step towards enhancing the impact of SOS Children's Villages in West, Central and North Africa. By adopting this declaration, member associations have demonstrated their commitment to protecting children and promoting their well-being in the region.
Key points
- Member associations of SOS Children's Villages in West, Central and North Africa adopt the "Tunis Declaration" to enhance governance and child protection.
- The declaration outlines strategic priorities for the next three years, focusing on governance, financial independence, and program development.
- The adoption of the Tunis Declaration reflects a shared commitment to protecting children and promoting their well-being in the region.
