Sustainable Development and the Environment

Co-sponsored by Save the Children in partnership with UNICEF and the Better Care Network. More children than ever before are in need of protection from neglect and abuse. The HIV/AIDS pandemic, conflict, natural disasters is generating increasing numbers of orphans and separated children. Whilst poverty, sickness and poor parenting is causing neglect and abuse in the home, abandoment and many children choosing to live on the street where they face further violations. This is not only a violation of child rights, it is also creating 'lost generations' of vulnerable children, unable to participate in development processes. This meeting will consider how best Governments, donors, and other actors can help to protect and care for children without adequate family care. We will look at new evidence on the harmful impact of the institutional care; explore best and promising practices on strengthening families and developing positive alternative forms of care; consider what political and policy changes are needed to protect and care for vulnerable children; and consider what the practical implications are of implementing the new UN Guidelines on the Care of Children without adequate Parental Care.

Location: Wilton Park

Conference Keywords: Orphans, Children, United Nations, Social Policy, Millennium Development Goals

Download the conference programme
(PDF 45Kb approx) - published 04/12/2009