site.btaNational Assembly Chair Nataliya Kiselova Talks with UNICEF Representative to Bulgaria Christina de Bruin

National Assembly Chair Nataliya Kiselova met with UNICEF Representative to Bulgaria Christina de Bruin to discuss deepening cooperation, the National Assembly press centre said on Wednesday. 

Christina de Bruin congratulated Kiselova on her election as National Assembly Chair and wished her success in this highly responsible position. She presented the main aspects of UNICEF's activities in Bulgaria and stressed that the protection of children's rights is an unwavering commitment of all citizens, state institutions and non-governmental organizations.

In recent years, there has been no consistent legislative activity in Bulgaria, noted Kiselova. She expressed hope that during the term of the 51st National Assembly, legislative initiatives related to overcoming inequalities and protecting children's rights will find a place on the parliamentary agenda.

"Most of the problems we face require complex solutions and cooperation between different institutions, which makes it difficult to quickly and unilaterally take specific steps," said Kiselova. She noted the violence in society, which is also visible among students, and the large inequalities between the opportunities for education, healthcare and specialized assistance available to children in small towns and cities, expressing hope that in the coming months, the efforts of the institutions will be directed towards overcoming these disparities.

One of the major issues facing Bulgaria, as well as other European countries, is ensuring adequate care for the so-called unaccompanied children, Kiselova pointed out. The biggest challenge in the coming years will be how these children, whose families are fleeing conflict zones, can gain integration into Bulgarian society and eventual citizenship, she said.