Child Protection: SACPC Highlights Key Issues

The State Agency for Child Protection (SACP) emphasizes the need for child protection in an interview

In an extensive interview with BTA, the chairperson of the State Agency for Child Protection (SACP), Dr. Teodora Ivanova, highlighted key problems and future priorities related to the well-being of children in the country. The main focus of the conversation was placed on the shared responsibility of society for the protection of children and the need for active participation in any case where a child is at risk.

"It is our common responsibility to protect our children, to care for them and not to remain indifferent if we see or know that a child is at risk somewhere," Dr. Ivanova emphasized, highlighting the importance of early prevention and support for children.

The interview, which took place at the beginning of the month, reveals a disturbing picture. From January 1 to November 1, 2025, the National Child Helpline 116 111 registered 21,362 calls. 10,879 consultations were conducted, with 5914 of them with children. In addition, during the same period, 1724 signals of children at risk were registered, which signals the growing need for intervention in cases of psychological and physical violence, as well as neglect of child care.

In response to these worrying trends, the SACP is taking active measures. The agency is actively working on the prevention of violence and aggression between and against children, as well as against risks in the online space. One of the important decisions is the introduction of the CyberkidZ Patrol application, which will allow children to report signals faster. However, Dr. Ivanova emphasizes that submitting a signal is not a game, but a responsibility, and emphasizes the need for careful use of the application.

The interview also touched on other important topics, including the risk of abuse of so-called laughing gas and vapes. The SACP is expanding its information campaign and holding meetings with students to raise awareness about the harms of these substances. "We wanted the children to hear firsthand what their use causes," explained Dr. Ivanova, emphasizing the importance of prevention. Specialists from the Military Medical Academy, "Pirogov" Hospital and regional medical institutions are included in this regard.

Dr. Ivanova, speaking about the problems, also noted that in November the Children's Council to the SACP held a meeting in the "Boyana" residence, where the topic of online security was discussed.

In response to a question regarding the specific signals received by the 116 111 line, Dr. Ivanova pointed out that the most frequent signals of violence are related to domestic violence. She added that the line is used by both children and adults and that the chat application is used primarily by children, and measures are being taken to extend its working hours.

In response to a question about students' readiness to recognize violence, Dr. Ivanova pointed out that each case is individual, but she always advises children to share with their parents and teachers. She emphasized that the 116 111 line is available around the clock.

In response to a question regarding the resources of the SACP, Dr. Ivanova stated that every signal is responded to promptly. "It is important to provide support and we are constantly upgrading the possibilities and ways to do so," she pointed out, emphasizing that the SACP team is small, but dedicated to the mission for the well-being of children.

The interview concluded with an emphasis on the need for absolute zero tolerance for violence and aggression. Dr. Ivanova highlighted several key priorities for 2025-2026, including the implementation of the Action Plan on the National Program for the Prevention of Violence, work on cases of children involved in parental conflicts, and a focus on online safety.

Dr. Ivanova expressed hope that through the unification of all participants in society, children will be protected from violence and will have the opportunity for full development. "We set the example and we must be very careful," she concluded.