European Guardianship Network

forthcoming

The European Guardianship Network (EGN), founded in 2018, aims to improve guardianship systems for unaccompanied children (UAC) in Europe. Coordinated by Nidos, the Network includes 54 members from 26 EU countries. Its main objectives are to strengthen guardianship systems and practices, promote UAC participation, and enhance European solidarity including through cross-border cooperation. The EGN strives to ensure that guardianship is part of an integrated child protection system. To achieve its objectives, the EGN offers a variety of activities focused on raising awareness and building knowledge, progress and innovation through Network meetings, study visits, working groups and focus groups with UAC. The EGN also provides input to the creation of resources in Europe by providing expertise to consultations from EU and UN Agencies and is working on its own resource for cross border cooperation. The EGN contributes and draws from European law and policy by offering expertise and recommendations, ensuring that EU commitments protect children's rights. The Network promotes child participation, ensuring that UAC voices are heard and inform practices. The EGN focuses on inclusivity, non-discrimination, and gender sensitivity, ensuring that UAC’s diverse needs, including those of LGBTQ+ children, are met. By strengthening guardianship systems and fostering collaboration, the EGN aims to create a Europe where UAC are valued and their rights are consistently upheld.