Ombudsperson participated in a conference related to children without parental care
12/12/2023
Pristina, December 12th, 2023 – Ombudsperson, Mr. Naim Qelaj participated in a conference organized by the “Organization for children without parental care – OFAP”, on the topic “Quality and sustainable services for children without parental care placed in family housing”.
The Ombudsperson emphasized the importance of the commitment from the whole society to the creation of safe, responsible and educational environments for girls and boys who need the warmth and security of family life.
“I consider that it is necessary to continue with the application of concrete measures to improve services through the strengthening of social programs and the center for social work itself as a mechanism that guarantees and ensures the presence of the state closer to children and host families,” said Mr. Qelaj.
He added that the centers for social work should be strengthened because reports show that they did not have adequate support to ensure sufficient capacities to provide services that guarantee the well-being for children without parental care.
Mr. Qelaj said that special policies and special measures should be drawn up regarding children with disabilities without parental care, with the aim of including them in services and recognizing and guaranteeing their rights, like all other children.
“I also consider that it is of particular importance to design support policies and programs for those children without parental care who reach the age of 18, extending social support programs, as I consider that this would guarantee continuity in their safety and well-being after of adulthood, because currently after this age they remain without any kind of support,” said the Ombudsperson.
The Ombudsperson praised the role of host families who, by opening their hearts and homes, contribute to building stronger communities, fostering a sense of empathy and creating a support network that benefits not only the children, but and society as a whole.