Representatives from EU countries gathered in Nicosia on 19 May for the 25th meeting of the Child Guarantee Coordinators.

Under the Cyprus Presidency, discussions focused on strengthening the European Child Guarantee and reviewing progress in its implementation.

Breaking the cycle of child poverty

The meeting began with a presentation on the European Commission’s Communication on breaking the cycle of child poverty and strengthening the European Child Guarantee, part of the EU Anti-Poverty Package. This initiative aims to tackle child poverty by

  • preventing and reducing poverty among families
  • scaling up access to services
  • strengthening the governance framework and transition to adulthood

Coordinators welcomed the package’s broad approach to supporting families and young people.

Transition to adulthood for vulnerable youth

A key session explored how to better support vulnerable young people as they move into adulthood. Coordinators emphasised the importance of connecting child protection, education, employment and social services.

Approaches and challenges

Good practices shared included Finland’s One-Stop Guidance Centres (Ohjaamo), mentoring programmes for care leavers, housing support and measures for young people not in employment, education or training (NEETs). Challenges such as homelessness, fragmented systems and funding gaps were also discussed.

Progress on the Child Guarantee Recommendation

In the afternoon, EU countries shared updates on reforms and achievements. Highlights ranged from integrated anti-poverty strategies and expanded childcare services to simplified family benefits and local Child Guarantee structures.

The meeting also included discussions on new support initiatives and future cooperation between relevant networks.