Child protection advocates call for systemic reforms in France and La Réunion

The Stop VIF Collective and the EPAA 974 association are organizing a departmental meeting in Saint-Denis, La Réunion, on August 17, 2026, to address child protection and violence against minors. The event aims to bring together lawmakers, magistrates, professionals, and families to evaluate progress made since 2022 and develop concrete proposals for better protection.

This regional meeting coincides with a broader structural crisis in child protection across France. Reports indicate that nearly 400,000 minors and young adults are currently under collective responsibility, a 40% increase over the last two decades. Challenges include a shortage of professional staff, lack of placement availability, mental health concerns, and difficulties supporting youth transitioning to adulthood. Advocates are calling for a new model that moves away from emergency management toward prevention and sustainable support systems.