Reorganization of the child rights protection system

In order to create a continuously functioning Child Rights Protection System intended to secure formation and application of uniform practice in protecting and defence of child rights and legitimate interests in the country, timely response to violations of the child‘s rights and prompt decision-making, a new Child Rights Protection System that is more protective in terms of the interests of the little ones has entered into force on the 1st of July of this year. The Child Rights Protection Divisions of all municipalities of Lithuania that work according to the same standards, i.e. unifying values and goals, the same practice of the application of law is formed, the unanimous, clear and specific actions in representing and defending the interests of children throughout the country are performed, have been subordinated to the State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service. The essence of this reorganization is to create a single and coherent system which would facilitate prompt and professional response to reports of child neglect, violence, to do a purposeful work when working with families that encounter problems or crises, to strengthen search for foster parents, including their support and counseling, to create a uniform, recognizable, child friendly environment of the Service, to develop and increase public intolerance for violations of the child‘s rights.

The Service ensures a continuously functioning Child Rights Protection System. There are 12 territorial divisions of the Service in the country which 24 hours a day, on weekends and on public holidays ensure child rights protection, respond to all written, oral reports or those received by other means about violations of the child‘s rights. The Service is conferred on the right to take measures and perform actions necessary in terms of justice towards administrative offences related to violations of the child‘s rights.

After the Child Rights Protection System became centralized, the municipalities remain the most important partner of the State Child Rights Protection and Adoption Service: the municipalities will provide education, social services and health services to families who are facing difficulties and can not cope alone with the challenges.