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2 clusters · 7 sources · 13 days · First seen · Last updated

Child protection and mental health in the Balkans

Overview

Regional discussions in Croatia and Montenegro have emphasized the need for stricter laws and legislative frameworks to protect children from physical and digital violence. Officials have advocated for increased minimum sentences and responsibilities for digital platforms to ensure online safety for minors.

Subsequent reports from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, and North Macedonia indicate escalating challenges regarding youth mental health and safety. Data shows rising rates of suicide, abuse, and domestic violence. In Croatia, academic pressure has been linked to depression and self-harm among students, while digital safety concerns persist as a significant portion of children are exposed to inappropriate online content. Additionally, North Macedonia has reported substantial increases in both juvenile offenders and child victims of crime, prompting calls for improved institutional coordination.

Entities

Ombudsman for Children · Sabina Glasovac · Hrvatski sabor · SDP · Miranda Novak

Timeline

  1. [INTERNATIONAL] 7 sources
    Mental health and safety concerns rise among youth in Balkans

    Reports from the Balkans indicate rising mental health struggles, academic pressure, and digital safety risks among children, alongside increasing rates of domestic violence and juvenile crime.

  2. [INTERNATIONAL] 2 sources
    Regional leaders call for stricter laws to protect children from violence

    Regional leaders and experts are calling for stricter laws and unified support systems to combat rising sexual violence against children and the increasing threats of digital violence in the Western Balkans.

Sources

24sata.hr · glas-slavonije.hr · index.hr · jajce-online.com · novilist.hr · republika.mk · rtv-kd.com