Tunisian Family Minister Asma Gabri emphasized that protecting children and supporting family care is a national priority and a shared responsibility. Speaking at the opening of the International Meeting of SOS Children's Villages in Hammamet, Gabri highlighted the importance of balancing comprehensive care with preserving family ties. She noted that Tunisia's policy for child protection aims to make the child's best interests the focus of all social or legal interventions.
Gabri explained that the national system for child protection is based on making the child's best interests the central axis of all interventions. She added that Tunisia has enshrined these orientations constitutionally and legislatively, establishing an extended institutional framework that makes the state, family, and civil society key partners in bearing this responsibility. This framework aims to ensure that children receive the care and protection they need.
The minister highlighted Tunisia's history of caring for vulnerable children, noting that despite having a comprehensive public system since the 1960s, the country has not hesitated to cooperate with SOS Children's Villages since its founding in 1981. This cooperation has been strengthened since 2019 through a partnership and public financing agreement between the Ministry and the association. The agreement aims to overcome financial and logistical challenges faced by the association.
Gabri called for expanding partnerships and opening up to regional and international experiences during a recent visit to Tunisia by the President of the International Council of SOS Children's Villages, Dominique Joubert. She encouraged the Tunisian association to share its expertise in family empowerment, youth care, and prevention of family breakdown with the continental and international community.
The SOS Children's Villages association has made a significant impact in Tunisia, with over 12,000 children benefiting from its programs. Gabri emphasized the importance of continued support and investment in child protection, citing the long-term benefits for society. She expressed her commitment to strengthening partnerships with national and international organizations to enhance child protection and family care.
The International Meeting of SOS Children's Villages in Hammamet brought together experts and stakeholders to discuss best practices and strategies for child protection and family care. Gabri's speech underscored the importance of collaboration and knowledge-sharing in addressing the complex challenges facing children and families. The meeting provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas and experiences.
In conclusion, Minister Gabri reiterated the Tunisian state's commitment to investing in children, viewing it as an investment in the future of society. She emphasized that successful experiences gain their true value only when they become shared knowledge that contributes to protecting children worldwide. The government will continue to prioritize child protection and family care, working with national and international partners to ensure the well-being of Tunisia's children.
Key points
- The Tunisian government has committed to investing in child protection and family care as a national priority.
- The SOS Children's Villages association has supported over 12,000 children in Tunisia through its programs.
- Minister Asma Gabri called for expanded partnerships and international cooperation to enhance child protection and family care in Tunisia.
