Children's rights Bernese reformers concerned about the situation of children in emergency aid

The situation of children and young people receiving emergency asylum assistance is a "cause for great concern". This was announced by the Reformed Churches of Bern-Jura-Solothurn on Monday following the publication of the study commissioned by the Federal Commission on Migration.

The situation in emergency aid must be improved quickly so that it takes into account the special needs of children and young people. The Reformed Churches of Bern-Jura-Solothurn were making their contribution to improving the situation in an ecumenical context.

Pastoral care in the return centers also has a positive effect on the children. In addition, numerous church and church-related volunteers were involved in the return centers. They provide services such as homework help and play afternoons, as well as opportunities for parents to meet.

The report states that the well-being and development of children and young people in emergency asylum assistance are at risk. The living conditions of the children concerned are not compatible with the Federal Constitution and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In particular, the lack of provision for children of pre-school age leads to irreversible developmental damage in some cases. Keeping entire families in one room for long periods of time is a major cause of long-term psychological damage and family tensions.