Disasters, conflicts and other crises can have devastating effects on children’s lives. Structures and systems that protect children and support their positive development are often undermined or damaged.
As a result, children are exposed to new threats, such as loss of or separation from their families, sexual exploitation, trafficking, and recruitment into armed groups. Furthermore, existing harmful practices (such as harmful labour and child marriage) can be exacerbated.
Plan International works with children, their families, communities and local authorities to prevent and respond to violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation against children with urgent, life-saving actions. Our programmes ensure the protection needs of children are met, with particular attention paid to the unique risks faced by adolescent girls.
FOSTER FAMILIES SUPPORT BURUNDI’S LOST GIRLS
Since the Burundian civil war began in 2015, more than 250,000 people have fled to neighbouring countries such as Tanzania. Many are unaccompanied girls who have been orphaned or become separated from their parents during their journeys to safety.
Plan International works in Northwest Tanzania to connect the unaccompanied girls with foster families who take care of them. We are also working to trace the girls’ parents and reunite families where possible.
Bernice*, 12: "There is a difference between here and Burundi. I am getting food, a place to sleep and care from my foster parent. It helps me feel safer."
Mobile child protection services keep migrant children safe
In Bogota, Colombia, we're responding to the needs of migrants and refugees from Venezuela.
Our mobile services, provided in collaboration with the government, the Colombian Red Cross and IOM among other partners, have supported over 3,700 people.
New arrivals and vulnerable people are supported with information and knowledge about their rights and available services in Bogota.
