site.btaJustice Minister Meets with UNICEF Representative to Bulgaria, Commits to Expand Model of Child Advocacy Centres

Justice Minister Georgi Georgiev made a commitment within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation signed in 2024 between the Ministry and UNICEF to expand the model of the Zona ZaKrila children's advocacy and support centres, which provide integrated services for child survivors of violence. This took place during a meeting with UNICEF Representative to Bulgaria Christina de Bruin, the press centre of the Justice Ministry said on Wednesday.

The aim is to provide legal assistance and support for children at risk, including refugee and migrant children, through the centres by providing guardianship and psychological support.

The meeting also discussed the possibilities of training programmes and the expansion of integrated services for children with anti-legal behaviour and children at risk, through the development of the Zona ZaKrila+ concept. For this purpose, support from the Norwegian Financial Mechanism will be sought in the new programming period. "Developing legislative initiatives to ensure the reintegration into society of children in conflict is among our main tasks," Georgiev further said.

Zona ZaKrila is the only place in the country for comprehensive protection and support for children who are victims or witnesses of violence and their families. The model is an innovative service for the country, created with the support of UNICEF, in partnership with the Government, the municipalities of Sofia, Shumen and Montana, the Institute for Social Activities and Practices (ISAP) and the Animus Association Foundation in 2016, UNICEF said.