Every Child Has the Right to 24/7 Protection

"Thank you so much… I feel safe and protected with you." Omar from Egypt said softly, while coloring his favorite picture book with wooden crayons. His journey has lasted for three long years – a journey filled with uncertainty, fear, and a hope that, despite everything, still refuses to fade.

Omar is fourteen. His eyes, dark as the night, tell a story he should never have had to live. In them, sorrow, fear, joy, and hope all reside at once.

He arrived at the reception center with a large group of people from Egypt. He had set out with his cousin, who had promised his parents he would take care of him. But three months ago, Omar woke up in a migrant camp in Greece – and his cousin was gone. Vanished without a trace. Fear gripped him. The only people he could lean on were acquaintances from his group, and with them he continued the journey to Bosnia and Herzegovina. But his heart remained heavy – with worry for himself, and for the cousin he hadn’t heard from in months. "I’m the youngest, quiet and withdrawn… I was afraid and didn’t trust anyone."

Although he was not alone on his journey, Omar often felt deeply isolated. Upon his arrival at the reception center, the guardian and the child protection officer recognized the importance of providing him with additional attention and support, particularly through activities that strengthen his resilience and support his emotional recovery.

“We organized a creative workshop in the camp and included Omar in a group of his peers. His hands soon found peace – in colors. He especially loves picture books with animals. He colors each animal carefully and precisely. He confided in us that he wants to become a veterinarian. His love for animals was born during his journey, as he spent countless nights in the forest, listening to the sounds of nature – among them the gentle footsteps of hedgehogs, which became especially dear to him,” shares Ćamila Koro.

Vedrana adds: “Omar knows we’re always here for him – to listen and support him. Sometimes, over a cup of black tea, he talks about his fears and uncertainties. He says he now falls asleep much more easily, because he knows that, in case of illness or need, there is someone who cares for him.”

His progress is visible. After only ten days in the camp, his room became the most colorful – its walls covered with animals from his coloring books, looking at him as he sleeps, waiting for the day he will be able to help them.

Sometimes, it takes so little to give a child hope again – a kind word, a warm smile, and a coloring book. For Omar, it meant everything.

The 24/7 child protection service ensures continuous care, protection, and timely identification of risks faced by children in the center. Staff work closely with guardians, social welfare centers, and other relevant actors to always place the best interests of the child at the heart of their actions. They recognize early signs of abuse, violence, or exploitation, report cases to the competent authorities, and provide immediate and appropriate protection. Their role is not only preventive – they actively contribute to safeguarding the well-being, safety, and emotional stability of children, creating a safe and supportive environment for their growth and development. This not only provides children with access to essential resources but also ensures that their needs and rights remain an absolute priority.

Boys like Omar remind us why we do this work. Because for us, there is no night or day, no rain or sunshine, when it comes to their safety and well-being. Because every child – without exception – has the right to protection.