Our first concern is, and must always be, the safety, dignity and well-being of children. Any allegation of abuse, misconduct or failure to protect children is deeply troubling and must be treated with care, accountability and respect for those affected.
The International Board has made clear that SOS Children’s Villages rejects any form of abuse and any conduct that violates the rights, safety or dignity of children. The organization must be fully grounded in its responsibility to provide safe, caring and protective environments for children and young people.
With respect to Hermann Gmeiner, the International Board has stated its position on removing references to his name. It has also asked member associations to provide any relevant information and is considering further steps, including a broader assessment of the issues raised.
The organization has taken steps to strengthen safeguarding, transparency and accountability across the federation and we remain committed to further improvement. The International Board remains actively engaged in reviewing the matters raised and in ensuring that appropriate follow-up, accountability measures and child protection systems are in place.
We are committed to addressing these matters with honesty, care, due process and a clear focus on accountability and learning. Given the complexity and sensitivity of these issues, it is important that relevant facts are assessed carefully and that those affected are treated with respect.
"These cases affect us deeply. We remain committed to ensuring that the mission of SOS Children’s Villages is carried forward with integrity, responsibility and transparency, and that children’s safety and well-being remain at the centre of all decisions," Mimmo Parisi, Chair of the International Board stated.