Erosion of Child Rights: A Looming Crisis?

Belgium’s General Delegate for the Rights of the Child has expressed serious reservations about the direction of the new federal government’s policies, suggesting that the fundamental rights of children are not being adequately prioritized. The delegate warns that proposed measures could trigger a “domino effect,” jeopardizing children’s access to essential services like education and healthcare.

Vulnerable Children at Risk: Key Areas of Concern

Solayman Laqdim,the General Delegate,has identified several critical areas where the new government’s agenda,led by a coalition including N-VA,MR,Les Engagés,Vooruit,and CD&V,poses a threat to child welfare. These include rising infant poverty, inadequate protection for unaccompanied minors (MENA), and insufficient support for vulnerable families.

Unaccompanied Minors: A Call for Compassion and Protection

A primary concern revolves around the treatment of unaccompanied minors (MENA). The Delegate emphasizes that these individuals should be viewed first and foremost as children in danger, making them particularly susceptible to exploitation and violence. The proposed reduction in reception places, coupled with the controversial use of bone tests for age determination, has drawn sharp criticism.

These minors, “before being considered migrants or foreigners, should first be seen as children in danger.”

According to UNICEF, unaccompanied minors are among the most vulnerable populations globally, frequently enough fleeing conflict, poverty, or persecution. Ensuring their safety and well-being requires a compassionate and rights-based approach.

Families Under Pressure: Social Assistance Cuts and Labor Market Changes

The Impact on Single-Parent and Large Families

Proposed caps on social assistance are expected to disproportionately affect large and single-parent families, who are already at a higher risk of infant poverty. The accelerated reduction of unemployment benefits could further destabilize these households, negatively impacting their children. The delegate also questions the fairness of limiting tax reductions for childcare costs to “active” parents, perhaps disadvantaging children from families with less conventional employment arrangements.

Flexibility vs.Stability: The Future for Children

Increased labor market flexibility could also create challenges for parents, indirectly affecting their children’s well-being and future prospects. The delegate suggests that policies should prioritize family stability and support systems to ensure children have the best possible start in life.

Healthcare Access: Budget Cuts Threaten Child Well-being

Planned budget cuts in health matters raise concerns about equitable access to quality healthcare for all children. The delegate argues that every child has the right to adequate medical care,and any measures that undermine this right are unacceptable.

A Call for Prioritization: Putting Children First

Despite some positive statements, the General Delegate remains unconvinced that the new government is truly prioritizing the rights and well-being of children. The delegate urges policymakers to reconsider their approach and ensure that all policies are aligned with the best interests of the child.

The rights of the child do not seem not be at the heart of concerns from the new government.