On December 5th, IOM Bulgaria hosted its last information event within the framework of the project "Support for Unaccompanied Minors Seeking International Protection," funded by the Norwegian Financial Mechanism.

The session commenced with an insightful presentation by Ana Raykova from IOM Bulgaria, offering a comprehensive overview of the project's accomplishments. Attendees gained valuable insights into the implemented activities and the achieved results. Additionally, the presentation addressed identified good practices within the project and illuminated the challenges encountered.

Subsequently, representatives from IOM, the State Agency for Refugees (SAR), and UNICEF engaged the audience, addressing various facets of the current situation. Topics included challenges related to unaccompanied children, such as their numbers and accommodation facilities. The presentation also covered projects under the National AMIF Programme, including the construction and opening of a new Safety Zone in the RRC Harmanli, as well as plans for expanding the current social services for unaccompanied children.

Later in the event, a representative from The Bulgarian Red Cross provided a detailed overview of the support and activities offered in a social service for unaccompanied children in the Oborishte district of Sofia. This included a summary of the services and activities provided to unaccompanied children, along with insights into lessons learned and challenges faced.

As the event concluded, a discussion unfolded with legal representatives of unaccompanied minors. The discourse covered best practices identified through collaboration with SAR, IOM, and other institutions and organisations. Topics discussed included consultations, family reunification under the Dublin III Regulation, and various other legal procedures aimed at ensuring the well-being and protection of unaccompanied minors.