Government of Kyrgyz Republic, the European Union and UNICEF host regional conference on repatriation of children from Syria and Iraq

Government of Kyrgyz Republic, the European Union and UNICEF host regional conference on repatriation of children from Syria and Iraq

A landmark regional convening opened today in Bishkek, bringing together government officials, child protection experts, and international partners from Central Asian countries to advance efforts supporting the reintegration of children and families repatriated from Syria and Iraq.

Co-organized by the Ministry of Labour, Social Welfare and Migration of the Kyrgyz Republic, European Commission's Service for Foreign Policy Instruments, and UNICEF Europe and Central Asia Regional Office, the Regional Convening on the Reintegration of Returnee Children from Syria and Iraq marks a critical moment in Central Asia's collective response to one of the region's most complex humanitarian challenges.

The two-day event brings together delegations from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, alongside representatives from the EU, the United States, and global child protection experts to share experiences in managing the repatriation process, providing psychosocial support, and providing access to education and other support.

Delegates will explore opportunities for continued collaboration to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of reintegration programs and prepare for future repatriations.

Central Asian countries have demonstrated strong leadership in repatriation and reintegration efforts. Since 2019, over 1,600 children have been repatriated across Central Asia, including 382 to Kyrgyzstan. These children, many of whom were born or raised in conflict zones, face significant barriers to recovery and reintegration. UNICEF, in partnership with national governments and with support from the EU and the US, has been providing psychosocial support, education, health care, and social services to help them rebuild their lives.

"Repatriating and reintegrating children affected by conflict is not only a humanitarian imperative, but also an investment in peace, stability, and the future of the region. EU remains committed to strengthening child protection systems and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to heal, learn, and thrive." - remarked Hans Farnhammer, Chargé d'affaires of the Delegation of the European Union to the Kyrgyz Republic.

"The repatriation of these children reflects the Government of Kyrgyzstan's strong commitment to protecting and upholding children's rights," said Samman J. Thapa, UNICEF Representative to the Kyrgyz Republic. "To ensure these children and their families can successfully reintegrate into their communities, it is critical to continue investing in robust systems of child protection, healthcare, and education. UNICEF remains a steadfast partner in supporting these efforts".