National People’s Congress of China Delegation on a study visit to Croatia

Zagreb, September 25 2025 – A high-level delegation from the Legislative Affairs Commission of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, concluded a two-day study visit to Croatia focused on strengthening child protection systems and legislative reform. Hosted by the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy in collaboration with UNICEF, the visit aimed to foster mutual learning and share Croatia’s best practices in child protection, social services, and online safety.

During the visit, the delegation met with representatives of three  key Croatian sectors in the area of child protection and strengthening capacities of social service workforce – social welfare, justice and interior  as well as key Croatian Parliament committees in this area – the Committee for Family, Youth and Sports and the Health and Social Policy Committee.  

During the meeting with social welfare system representatives, including with the Ministry of Labour, Pension System, Family and Social Policy, Croatian Institute of Social Work, Family Centre and Academy of Social Welfare, the delegation had a chance to gain insights into Croatia’s policy framework and reforms in social services, family support, and violence prevention. UNICEF highlighted its role in supporting the strengthening of the child protection system, with emphasis on family-and community - based care and support for children and families at risk of separation.  

Throughout the meetings, the delegates were able to learn about the social welfare policy framework, the childcare reform and family and parenting support statutory services provided by different institutions, as well on the importance of addressing violence against children and related legal reforms through an effective child protection system.

The delegation also engaged with representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Public Administration and Digital Transformation and the Ministry of Interior, learning about the justice system’s role in child protection and efforts to ensure online safety for children.  

A field visit to the Centre for Provision of Community Services Zagreb showcased Croatia’s successful deinstitutionalization efforts and transformation of residential care institutions—such as Children’s Home Zagreb and Centre for Rehabilitation Stančić—into modern social service providers.

Their study visit was concluded with meeting the two main Parliament Committees in the area of child protection: the Committee for Family, Youth and Sports and the Health and Social Policy Committee. 

The China National People’s Congress plays a central role in drafting and implementing all laws in China, including the child protection laws. This visit marks a significant step in strengthening international cooperation and advancing child welfare through shared knowledge and legislative innovation.