The contemporary situation and future possibilities for foster care in Bulgaria

Abstract

This article explores some of the problems connected with building a system of foster care and family placement in Bulgaria. Based on an analysis of the situation of children at risk, especially that of institutionalized children, some directions are presented here, which could help and support the transition to a system of foster care. The short Bulgarian experience in this sphere, which took place first in the early 1940s, and subsequently after the democratic reforms in 1989, has been the starting point of this analysis, and is proof of the responsibility Bulgaria has taken for establishing a sound working system for children's protection.

Keywords:

• Children at Risk
• Institutions for Children Deprived of Parents’ Care
• Foster Care
• Family Care
• Child Protection

Notes

At the beginning of the democratic changes in Bulgaria, the author had the opportunity, as a university tutor, scientist and explorer, to co-operate with specialists and organizations who were pioneers in fostering, and to undertake some exploration with them of the field.