Support for the Most Vulnerable Refugees and Migrants – Children and Women
A Journey from Burundi to Serbia
- Srpski
- English
Belgrade, June 2024 - Two years ago, Mariette fled Burundi to Serbia with her husband and children due to political crisis. When the police knocked on their door, they decided to find a safe place for their family. They spent their first year in Serbia at the Krnjaca Asylum Centre in Belgrade. Three-year-old Naël and his younger sister Analia welcomed their brother Dušan in Belgrade five months ago.
Once Mariette's husband Hervé found a job, they were able to afford renting an apartment where they currently live. A challenge for their harmonious family life is income. While Hervé works, Mariette stays home with the baby and their older children. She hopes to find a job and wishes her children could spend time in daycare, socializing and learning the language of their new country.
“It's tough without a job, alone at home with three kids,” Mariette describes her daily life far from her native Burundi.
The activities and support provided by Info Park, with UNICEF's backing, are crucial for their family and many refugees and migrants finding refuge in Serbia or those on their way to Western European countries. The family arrived in Serbia by plane. Despite the challenges of the journey, they soon learned about Info Park in Belgrade, a secure place providing various services and supplies for their three young children, but also workshops, educational and psychosocial activities during which they can ask questions, discuss their concerns, and get the assistance they need.
“Coming to Info Park often is very important for us in Belgrade,” says father Hervé. “I usually come to pick up diapers, wet wipes, and more. Our income isn't high, so every bit of help means a lot.”
For Mariette, one particularly valuable activity is “Ladies Night”, a workshop born out of recognition by Info Park staff of the need for women to have time for themselves at least once a week.
“Unfortunately, I don't get to come often because I care for the children. They are still young, but I know Info Park and its activities dedicated to women and girls are very important. It's precious,” says thirty-year-old Mariette.
Single-digit percentages of women embark on refugee journeys alone, similar to minors. Yet, women and children are at the highest risk of trauma and violence, often even from those they join for protection. Activities like “Ladies Night” at Info Park provide a safe space for them to discuss their concerns, seek advice, access legal aid if needed, and learn about their rights. They can also relax, learn the language, dance, and sing, offering a respite from the challenges they face.
Mariette greatly appreciates the women’s hygiene kit she received at Info Park.
“They simply think of us, and that’s very important to me,” Mariette proudly emphasizes as she receives two bags of essentials.
As the children play with their father on the lawn and their mother entertains the baby, Mariette hopes that by the time they celebrate Dušan’s first birthday, she will have found a job to help provide for their family. She also looks forward to spending time socializing and learning with other women at Info Park.
UNICEF, in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Serbia and partner organizations, ensures the safety and well-being of refugee and migrant children and women through health, social, and educational systems. UNICEF provides additional support to the most vulnerable boys, girls, and women, focusing on child protection and addressing gender-based violence, in collaboration with civil society and partners such as Info Park.
