Skopje, 1 June 2025 (MIA) – The Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth extended International Children's Day greetings, pointing out that one of its key priorities is promoting the social and child protection system, so that every child can grow up in an environment filled with love, security, support and respect.

In a press release on Sunday, the Ministry said children have a natural right to grow up in a family environment, and their best interests should always be the guiding principle for decisions made regarding their care.

"The Ministry continuously invests in child protection reform, including strengthening the system for supporting children with disabilities, strengthening the foster care system, and supporting families at risk. Foster care is the best alternative for children without parents or parental care. It is not only about providing a roof over the child’s head, but also about providing the warmth, love, and emotional support that only a family can provide," reads the press release.

According to the latest data, the Ministry adds, there are 380 foster families and 627 foster children in the country.

"We are proud that in our country, in the past five years, not a single child without parental care under the age of 18 has been placed in a residential institution. Over 80 percent of these children are in foster families, and the rest in small group homes. The Ministry is also working to expand the capacities for preschool education, in order for more children to have the opportunity to attend kindergarten and thus ensure a better chance for success in the next levels of education," the Ministry said in its greeting. 

Photo: Ministry of Social Policy, Demography and Youth