The International Council of SOS Children's Villages has praised Tunisia for its exemplary efforts in protecting and caring for children. Council President, Domenico Barizzi, stated that Tunisia's experience and achievements serve as a model for other countries to follow. He emphasized the importance of sharing experiences and best practices to improve child welfare globally. The council's meeting in Tunisia brings together 28 associations from five continents to share knowledge and expertise.
The meeting, organized by the Tunisian Association of SOS Children's Villages, aims to promote the rights of children to a safe and nurturing environment. The event is attended by representatives from various countries, including 12 members of the International Federation of SOS Children's Villages' executive committee. The Tunisian association has made significant progress in caring for children, with the number of beneficiaries increasing from 8,000 to 12,500 since the beginning of the year.
The association's president, Mohamed Magdich, highlighted Tunisia's hosting of the international meeting and the executive committee's gathering as a significant opportunity for knowledge sharing and collaboration. He expressed hope that the country's experience in child welfare will inspire other nations. The association plans to expand its services to 24 governorates by 2030 and open new offices in several regions.
The number of children residing in SOS Children's Villages has decreased to 240, down from 350, thanks to successful reintegration programs that help children return to their families and natural environments. The association's efforts focus on family support and prevention of neglect. Magdich attributed the success to partnerships with the government and civil society.
The association has secured significant funding, including a 2.5 million dinar government grant since 2019 and 6 million dinars raised through a resource mobilization campaign. The current budget stands at 34 million dinars. Magdich expressed gratitude for the support, which enables the association to provide essential services to children in need.
The meeting also highlights Tunisia's support for children from other countries, including Palestine. The Palestinian representative, Ghada Harzallah, expressed appreciation for Tunisia's assistance to Palestinian children, which has helped them meet their basic needs in challenging circumstances. The Tunisian Association of SOS Children's Villages enjoys a strong reputation in Palestine.
The SOS Children's Villages International Federation has played a crucial role in supporting children globally, including those affected by conflicts. The federation's efforts focus on providing care and protection to vulnerable children, promoting their well-being and development. The meeting in Tunisia serves as a platform for sharing experiences and expertise to improve child welfare worldwide.
Key points
- Tunisia serves as a model for child protection and care, with successful programs and collaborations with international organizations.
- The Tunisian Association of SOS Children's Villages has made significant progress in caring for children, with increasing numbers of beneficiaries and expanding services.
- The international meeting highlights the importance of sharing experiences and best practices to improve child welfare globally.
