Since 2018, UNICEF has played a key role in responding to the needs of refugee and migrant children and their families residing in Temporary Reception Centres (TRCs) across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“Through a comprehensive and child-centred approach, in collaboration with UN and NGO partners, and in response to the needs and requests of local and national authorities, UNICEF has provided protection, education, psychosocial support and health services to thousands of vulnerable children, including unaccompanied children,” UNICEF said.
The agency provided 24/7 protection to more than 5,698 unaccompanied children, identifying risks and ensuring referrals in cases of violence, abuse, neglect and trafficking. Legal guardianship has been granted to 1,727 children, enabling them to be represented in administrative proceedings and protecting their best interests.
“This year alone, 583 children received support through case management, while 176 cases of violence or exploitation were reported and processed. 114 children were reached through prevention and response to gender-based violence, and 67 were supported through risk reduction measures,” UNICEF said.
Regarding mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS), UNICEF established Child-Friendly Spaces (CFS) and organized structured psychosocial activities, which reached 1,690 children. A total of 3,290 children received psychosocial support, including 127 accompanied children and 265 unaccompanied children in 2025.
UNICEF also provided access to formal and non-formal education for more than 5,064 children, including early learning, preparatory programs and digital learning through the Akelius app. Vocational training programs reached 2,235 adolescents.
In collaboration with educational institutions and NGOs, UNICEF equipped 11 schools with ICT equipment and improved connectivity in eight schools, enabling over 10,000 children – more than half of whom are children on the move – to access digital language learning.
UNICEF reached 430 parents and caregivers through parenting programs, while 61 frontline workers received training in child protection. Feedback mechanisms included 747 people from the refugee and local communities, ensuring transparency and accountability, they emphasized in a statement to Fena.
They added that they also supported 165 babies, children and mothers through health and nutrition services, including mother and baby centers. Also, 88 caregivers received counseling on infant and young child nutrition. In order to preserve dignity and meet basic needs, UNICEF distributed clothing and hygiene items every year. This year – for 618 children and women in reception centers.
“UNICEF’s multi-sectoral response was key to protecting the rights and well-being of refugee and migrant children in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Through strategic partnerships, capacity building and community engagement, UNICEF continues to work to ensure that no child is left behind,” said UNICEF. UN agencies that take care of the quality of living standards of children and youth.
Photo: illustration
