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UNICEF strongly condemns violence against children in institutions

SOFIA, 12 March 2008 – UNICEF strongly condemns the shooting in Tran, which killed one girl and injured two children from the institution for children deprived of parental care. We are deeply saddened and outraged by this cruel incident. This reminds us once more that children in institutions, wherever these are, are vulnerable and exposed to danger.

UNICEF is concerned by recent incidents of violence against children in institutions and renews calls for accelerated efforts to improve the child protection system in Bulgaria. The case in Tran has once again highlighted that additional and urgent efforts have to be channeled towards prevention of institutionalization and improving protection of children without parental care. Key reforms are still needed to convert existing residential institutions into a system of community based services.

UNICEF is committed to assist the Government of Bulgaria in further expanding family support services for prevention of abandonment and help municipalities in designing appropriate interventions to deinstitutionalize children.

About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 150 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

For more information:
Tzvetelina Bonova, Communications Officer, UNICEF Bulgaria
Tel.: +359-2-96-96-207
Email: tbonova@unicef.org

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