Ambassador Nikolaus Meyer-Landrut's speech for launch of the "Improving Foster Care System in Türkiye Project."

Dear Minister,

Representatives of UNICEF, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Labour and Social Security,

Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests and press members,

Let me extend a warm welcome to all of you as we are launching the "Improving Foster Care System in Türkiye Project." It is a pleasure to stand before this diverse assembly of partners, united by a common goal - protecting our children. 

This is not just a duty; it is a moral imperative that transcends borders and cultures. Today, we are making a commitment to prioritize childcare and protection, in order to create a future where every child can thrive and contribute to society.

Unfortunately, violence against children is still a stark reality.

The statistics are alarming: A worldwide study carried out by UNICEF, our reliable partner in this project, shows that nearly three in four children between 2 and 4 years old suffer physical punishment or psychological violence. 

3% of children aged 10 to 18 do not feel safe at home. These alarming numbers underscores the urgency of our mission – to provide homes for all children where they can feel safe, cherished and empowered.

Across the EU and in Türkiye, we have made significant progress in child care. We must ensure that children are not placed in institutions, where they may face further risks. This is why we are partnering in this project to strengthen Türkiye’s foster care system through a child-rights approach.

Our common goal is clear - every child should have access to national child protection support services meeting the highest European standards.

Within the last 15 years, the EU has committed more than 1 billion Euro to fund social protection related projects in Türkiye. In that context, the project we are launching today shows our strong commitment to protecting children within and beyond the European Union. This project will help establish an exemplary model in Türkiye, representing a beacon of hope for children who have faced adversity.

It also embodies the values that we hold dear - respect for human rights, dignity, and solidarity.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the deep impact this project can have. By strengthening the institutional capacity of the Foster Care Services, this project will help lay the foundations for a more secure and nurturing environment for children. 

It will enhance the social workers and professionals skills, ensuring that they can effectively carry out their vital roles. It will help foster families to be prepared for all potential challenges they may face. This will contribute to our ultimate goal: that children will be more likely to succeed in school, have better chances to find decent jobs, and will face lower risk of poverty in their future.

I am sincerely touched by the inspiring stories of the foster carer family and the participants who spoke before us earlier this morning.

Emergency foster carers play a critical role in providing immediate care and protection to children in critical situations. Indeed, we have witnessed their importance in the tragic earthquakes of February 2023. By strengthening this aspect of the child protection network, we will ensure that vulnerable children receive the timely and appropriate support they deserve, without having to settle in an institution.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I believe that this project is not just a financial investment; it is an investment in the hearts and minds of our societies. Together, we can create a world where all children grow up in families filled with love, support, and opportunity.

Before I conclude, I want to remind each of us of the crucial responsibility we bear - to respect the rights of the most vulnerable among us, the children.

Let us move forward with dedication and determination, as such efforts will shape a better future for the generations to come.

Thank you, and let us continue working together to put children first.