site.btaDeputy Prime Minister Zafirov Meets with UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria Christina de Bruin

"It is extremely important to build an environment in which every child in Bulgaria feels truly protected and supported—not only in words, but also in their everyday lives. The Bulgarian government's focus is clear: systematic and integrated measures targeting the most vulnerable children — including Roma, children with disabilities, children in extreme poverty, and unaccompanied refugee children. We share a very clear understanding with UNICEF – that caring for every child begins where policy meets reality on the ground. This makes our cooperation not just useful, but necessary, " Deputy Prime Minister Atanas Zafirov said during a meeting with Christina de Bruin, UNICEF Representative in Bulgaria, quoted in a press release from the Cabinet's press office on Wednesday.

Zafirov outlined the main lines of action of the Bulgarian government, namely: early investment in children, especially those from vulnerable communities; support for parents through accessible services; prevention of violence and early marriages; training of specialists; inter-institutional cooperation; and partnership with the non-governmental sector.

De Bruin welcomed the government's commitment to making the well-being and development of children and young people a top priority. “By putting children and young people at the heart of its political agenda, the government is not only investing in their future, but also stimulating the country's social and economic development and prosperity.” She also presented the main areas of UNICEF's work in Bulgaria, including early childhood development and protection from violence, quality inclusive education and youth empowerment, social inclusion, and monitoring of children's rights.

During the meeting, special attention was paid to the prevention and combating of violence against women and children. The possibilities for increasing joint efforts on this issue were discussed. In this context, the role of “Zona ZaKrila” was highlighted - a unique model supported by UNICEF that provides comprehensive protection and assistance to children and families affected by violence. Since their creation in 2015, these centres have supported over 4,000 children, and in 2023 the model was expanded to new areas of the country through its integration into existing social services to ensure access to protection for even more vulnerable children. UNICEF is also piloting a “Zona ZaKrila Plus” model for children who have committed antisocial acts and are in conflict with the law, the statement said.