In association:

UNITED NATIONSHUMAN RIGHTSOffice of the High Comissioner Expert Consultation

Irene RizziniThe International Center for Research and Policy on Childhood/PUC-RioChildwatch International Research Network1 - 2 November 2011, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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FOCUSChildren and youth who have the street as a central reference point mostly in their family/community contexts but very vulnerable

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Life on the streets: the heart of the matterThe problem persists as a major challengeInadequate responses persistOpportunities: timing is right (for change)Strategies for change: effective responses

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The problem persists as a major challengeUnderstanding the roots of the problem Brazil rich and poor; generations of families barely thrivingSome indicators: poverty, violence, poor education and slum living conditions

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2010 census of children in street situations45% (12-15); 29% (16-17); 23% (6-11)57% lived with parents, relatives or friends (4% streets)24% of the 16,17 year olds completed elementary school2009 household survey children 0 to 646% born into families under poverty line

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2. Inadequate responses persist

Children seem and treated as threatsViolent practices Negative lens of the mediaFocus on children and youth when at high risk

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Misso

Misso

3. Opportunities: timing is right (for change)

Childrens rights in Brazil: laws and policiesThe Councils work on policiesKey actors in action: government and NGOsSuccessful use of expertise from University

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Successful experience working with national and local key actors Federally mandated Childrens Rights Councils. Rio Council: success in producing the first policy Process of constructing policies on street children in dialogue with key actors in 8 states. Follow up of policies adopted in 3 municipalities: RJ, SL, RE) Building political support engaging several allies (mandate responsibility and power to change)

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Successful experience working with national and local key actors- Identify and engage advocacy groups, workers; youth with street life experience, othersEstablishing an agenda with priorities Set up of an implementation oversight committee Linking policies to public budgets Strategies to face challenges policy implementation

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4. Strategies for change: effective responses Identify the roots of the problem (broader picture) Responses beyond violation of rights promotion of rights link to other issues such as family planning and support; mental health issues...

Target as priorities: children on the streets but also those still in family settings though vulnerable (family and community ties)

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CHANGE OF LENS

PERCEPTION AND ATTITUDEFROM STREET CHILDREN VIEWED AS A THREATTO CHILDREN AS GIFTSWITH HOPE IN THE PRESENT AND FUTURE

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Quando h oportunidades...

CIESPICompromisso com as infncias do mundoCommitted to children throughout the worldComprometidos con las infancias del mundo

www.ciespi.org.br

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