Summary: This meeting aims not only to raise
awareness, but also to strengthen the
protection of children’s rights in asylum and
immigration policies.
Emerging EU asylum and immigration policy
3 November 2004, International Press Centre, Brussels
Organised by Defence for Children International (DCI) The
Netherlands in cooperation with the Separated Children in
Europe Programme (SCEP), Save the Children and DCI-Belgium.
OBJECTIVE
You are invited to participate in an experts meeting that will
assess the impact the harmonisation of EU asylum and
immigration policy has had on the rights of separated children.
This meeting will take place on 3 November 2004 in the
International Press Centre in Brussels. The meeting is arranged
in connection with the Tampere II Summit of the European
Council on the harmonisation of EU policy on immigration and
asylum, which will be held in Brussels on 5 November 2004. We
thought it timely and pertinent – immediately prior to this
European Council meeting to take a broader view of the
consideration given to the rights of separated children in EU law
and, to exchange impressions and recommendations together
with separated children, policymakers, professionals, and others
in order to inform and influence European policymakers, media
and professionals. This meeting aims not only to raise
awareness, but also to strengthen the protection of children’s
rights in asylum and immigration policies.
PROGRAMME
The programme will be divided into a morning session (10.00-
13.00), a lunch break (13.00-14.00) and an afternoon session
(14.00-16.30). The morning session will consist of an open
plenary discussion on different topics that concern separated
children in EU asylum policy. This discussion will be used as a kick-
off for the workshops that will take place during the afternoon
and elaborate on more specific themes (e.g. guardianship,
reception). During the day a panel of approximately 10 Belgium
and Dutch separated children will join the meeting and
discussions. Furthermore, a panel(s) of policy makers and
professionals will be invited to give their opinions during the day.
The goal of the meeting will be an assessment of recent
developments with a view to formulating concrete
recommendations on the different themes. These
recommendations will be compiled in an outcome document. The
final document will be presented in a press conference. The
working language will be English/French (translators will be
available).
PRACTICALITIES
The meeting (including lunch, etc.) will be offered to you free of
charge. Unfortunately, the budget does not cover for
accommodation and travel costs. Participants are asked to make
their own travel arrangements. However, two hotels (near the
International Press Centre) will be offering favourable room rates
to participants. Participants are requested to inform S. Bommeljé
if they would like to take advantage of this offer. Early October
participants will receive the programme and more practical
information. Don’t hesitate to ask for more information!
For enquiries and application forms, please contact:
Ms. S. Bommeljé
Defence for Children International The Netherlands
P.O. box 75297, 1070 AG Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 20 420 37 71; Fax.: +31 20 420 38 32
E-mail: s.bommelje@defenceforchildren.nl
Website: www.defenceforchildren.nlOwner: Separated Children in Europe Programme (SCEP), Save the Children and DCI-Belgium