Paper: Preventing Family Separation and Institutionalisation of Children
Recommendations for the 2028-2034 MFF. This joint position paper sets out how EU funds can be designed to deliver better outcomes, stronger accountability, and long-term social and economic value, in line with the EU's legal obligations and strategic priorities.
The next EU Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034 will shape Member States’ social policies for the next decade. Families facing poverty and discrimination often only interact with authorities during crises, and responses are frequently reactive and punitive, leading to unnecessary child–family separations. EU funds should encourage Member States to invest in strengthening families and communities. The EU's horizontal principles, solidarity, cohesion, human rights, partnership, transparency, 'do no significant harm' and 'leave no one behind', must be enforced consistently throughout the funding cycle.
Our key demands:
- Strengthen prevention and social inclusion
- Ensure effective partnership and accountability
- Operationalise fundamental rights
The next Multiannual Financial Framework offers a strategic opportunity to ensure EU funds by supporting families before problems escalate; delivering better outcomes for children; reducing long-term public expenditure; and upholding the EU's legal and policy commitments. With clear governance, effective partnership, and operationalised safeguards for fundamental rights, EU funding can act as a catalyst for resilient, inclusive social systems across Europe.
This joint paper is enabled by Tanya's Dream Fund, a time-limited, grant-giving initiative aimed at catalysing systems change in Bulgaria so that families and communities are supported to help children thrive.
Read the joint recommendations for the 2028-2034 MFF Regulatory Framework
Further information
