Pristina, March 16, 2022 – The Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj participated in a roundtable where a guide was presented on how to treat asylum-seeking, refugee and migrant children.

Mr. Qelaj said that this guide will serve as a guide for the authorities dealing with asylum applications and the treatment of refugees in our country, in advancing and building capacity from the information it will provide.

“The best interests of the child are a very important principle embodied in both the Convention and the laws, so this guide will be of help to all of us,” said Mr. Qelaj.

“Guidelines on assessing and determining the best interest for asylum seeking, refugee, and migrant children” aims to strengthen existing child protection systems and local mechanisms. It also aims to strengthen child protection capacities through mutual institutional coordination.

The roundtable was organized by the office of the UN Development Coordinator in Kosovo, on behalf of UNHCR, UNICEF, IOM in partnership with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.