Atanas Zafirov: Every child in Bulgaria should feel truly protected and supported

"It is extremely important to build an environment in which every child in Bulgaria feels truly protected and supported — not only in words, but also in their daily lives. The focus of the Bulgarian government is clear: systematic and integrated measures targeting the most vulnerable children – including Roma, children with disabilities, children in extreme poverty and unaccompanied refugee children. We have a very clear understanding with UNICEF – that caring for every child begins where policy meets reality on the field, which makes our cooperation not just useful, but necessary." This was stated by Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov during a meeting with Ms. Christina de Bruin, UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria. 

Zafirov outlined the leading directions in the activities of the Bulgarian government, namely: early investment in children, especially for those from vulnerable communities, support for parents through accessible services, prevention of violence and early marriages, training of specialists, interinstitutional cooperation and partnership with the non-governmental sector. 

De Bruin welcomed the government's commitment to place the well-being and development of children and young people as a top priority in the Governance Agenda. "By putting children and young people at the center of the political agenda, the Government is not only investing in their future, but also stimulating the social and economic development and prosperity of the country." She also presented the main areas of UNICEF's activities in Bulgaria, including early childhood development and protection from violence, quality inclusive education and youth empowerment, social inclusion, as well as monitoring of children's rights. 

Zafirov emphasized the serious contribution and expertise of UNICEF in the field of juvenile justice, support for pregnant women and young mothers, as well as the commitment to building a sustainable system for protection and prevention of child abandonment. 

During the meeting, special attention was paid  to the prevention and combating of violence against girls, boys and women. The possibilities for increasing joint efforts on the topic were discussed. In this context, the role of "Zona ZaKrila" was noted - a unique model supported by UNICEF, which provides comprehensive protection and assistance to children and families victims of violence. Since its establishment in 2015, the centers "Zona ZaKrila" have supported over 4,000 children in several cities,  And in 2023, the model began to expand to new districts in the country, by integrating it into existing social services to ensure access to protection for even more vulnerable children across the country. UNICEF is also piloting the "Zone for Wings Plus" model, which includes programs for child perpetrators of anti-social acts and in conflict with the law.