The SOS Villages in West, Central, and North Africa have adopted the Tunis Declaration to enhance governance and increase impact. The declaration was adopted during the annual meeting of regional management field leaders, which took place on the sidelines of the International SOS Villages meeting in Hammamet, Tunisia, from September 26 to 29. The meeting brought together leaders of 28 SOS Villages from five continents.
The Tunis Declaration outlines the strategic orientations for the region over the coming years, focusing on six priority areas. These areas include strengthening institutions, promoting financial independence, and improving program effectiveness. The declaration aims to accelerate the establishment of management boards in 18 associations by 2028 and create a mechanism for guidance and twinning between countries.
The Tunis Declaration also focuses on promoting financial independence through diversifying funding sources and establishing a regional task force for resource mobilization. Additionally, the declaration seeks to improve program effectiveness by harmonizing monitoring and evaluation indicators and promoting integrated approaches in mental health and youth participation.
The regional coordination mechanism will be strengthened through the establishment of an annual coordination and harmonization meeting. The declaration also aims to enhance the role of regional representatives in the International Council and develop follow-up mechanisms. A regional coordination group will be established to lead the implementation of commitments and prepare annual reports.
The Tunis Declaration was signed by SOS Villages in West, Central, and North Africa, which comprise 28 member associations. Only 10 of these associations currently have a functioning management board. The declaration reflects the shared commitment of SOS Villages to enhance governance and increase impact on children in African countries and communities.
According to estimates, 35 million children in Africa are deprived of family care, and over 70% of African countries lack comprehensive policy and legislative frameworks for alternative care. The Tunis Declaration will be presented during the next General Assembly of the International SOS Villages organization, scheduled for October 2026.
The adoption of the Tunis Declaration demonstrates the commitment of SOS Villages in West, Central, and North Africa to speak with one voice within the International Union. The declaration aims to promote advocacy, particularly by calling on the international community to increase financial and technical support for enhancing governance and child protection in the region.
Key points
- SOS Villages in West, Central, and North Africa adopt the Tunis Declaration to enhance governance and impact.
- The declaration focuses on six priority areas, including strengthening institutions and promoting financial independence.
- The adoption of the Tunis Declaration reflects the shared commitment of SOS Villages to enhance governance and increase impact on children in African countries and communities.
