Mission Romania

Since joining the EU in January 2007, and despite an economic upturn linked to the structural reforms of
the 1990s, Romania is still affected by political instability. Despite the progress that has been made, the involvement of the government in some social sectors, such as child protection, remains inadequate. Médecins du Monde supports civil society organisations fighting against abuse and mistreatment of children.

Protecting children and supporting the association COPII - Satu Mare

Activities :

In the absence of specialist Romanian child abuse professionals, MdM’s PACA regional delegation is supporting the monitoring and supervision of new child protection professionals through the Romanian association COPII. The activities include two components:

• ongoing training of the childcare assistants and the organisation of support groups;
• supporting the Romanian organisation COPII.

Outlook :

• To continue the ongoing training programme and organise specific sessions for the childcare assistants receiving abandoned children under one year old.
• In partnership with the Child Protection Department, developing specific activities to encourage the return of children to their birth families.
• COPII will become involved in the child protection reforms, particularly with a view to becoming an authorised training organisation.

August 2008