We are thrilled and honored to announce the inauguration of Barnahus, the first child-friendly safe space, at the FAR's Child Protection Center that is dedicated to upholding the best interests of child victims and ensuring due process of law.
The child-friendly safe space follows and adapts the internationally recognized Barnahus approach to child-friendly justice, bringing together law enforcement, criminal justice, child protection services, and medical and mental health professionals under one roof.
"This Armenian-style Barnahus holds tremendous significance as a pioneering institution in our country. It has been carefully tailored to suit the unique realities of Armenia, representing the culmination of years of dedicated efforts to address the urgent needs in this field. With the establishment of this exceptional milestone, our Center gains enhanced capabilities to provide comprehensive crisis intervention services and strengthen our commitment to a child-centered approach," expressed Mira Antonyan, Executive Director of the FAR Child Protection Center noting that Barnahus includes a room that has a child-friendly atmosphere with age-appropriate toys, reading and activities, designed to make children feel comfortable before and during the interviews.
The establishment of Barnahus was made possible by UNICEF in partnership with the Fund for Armenian Relief Child Protection Center with the financial support of the European Union, as well as with strong commitment from the Investigative Committee, Ministries of Labor and Social Affairs, Justice, and Health, as well as the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Armenia.
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