Alexandria, 13 September 2021- The International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Egypt, in cooperation with the National Coordinating Committee for Combating and Preventing Illegal Migration and Trafficking in Persons (NCCPIM&TIP), and the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM), conducted three consecutive workshops on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Protection and Assistance of Child-Asylum Seekers, Refugees and Victims of Migrant Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons, for sixty (60) national experts and practitioners from Alexandria, Marsa Matrouh and Aswan governorates from 27 August till 1 September.

“It was an honour and pleasure to see Dr. Sahar El Sonbaty, Chairperson of NCCM, launching this important event with the participation of representatives from the NCCPIM&TIP, Public Prosecution and Ministry of Justice. This reflects her and Egypt engagement in providing the necessary assistance and protection to vulnerable children. We are pleased to jointly work with NCCM according to pertaining Egyptian national strategies. This is to ensure that children enjoy all their rights without discrimination and protect them from all forms of violence, neglect, abuse and exploitation", said Laurent de Boeck, Chief of Mission of IOM to the Arab Republic of Egypt.

During the workshops, participants were introduced to the SOPs concepts and actions to enhance their knowledge and familiarity. The sessions have included practices examples, governing laws, relevant conventions, challenges, roles and responsibilities of national and international actors.

The SOPs were officially launched by NCCM in January 2020 after endorsement of relevant Governmental authorities. As part of its role in the UN Taskforce, IOM is committed to supporting the development and implementation of the SOPs aiming at strengthening the National Child Protection System.  

The workshops contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal 16 "Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions” and Goal 17 “Partnerships for the Goals”. The workshops also align with IOM Egypt’s engagement with the Government of Egypt on child protection to ensure better living conditions, fulfilment of the rights and prevention of migration-related crime risks for children.

For more information, please contact Mariam Salim at IOM Egypt, Tel: +20 1012 428 527, Email: msalim@iom.int