National legislation

Like every child in the world, you have rights and they are guaranteed by the country you live in.

You can seek and protect your rights, when you know the Child Protection Act.

The Child Protection Act has been adopted in Bulgaria on the May 31 2000.  

This Act regulates the rights of children and young people until the age of 18 and their protection.

The most important principles of this Act are:

1.     The children have the right to protection.

2.     The personality of each child must be respected.

3.   Every child has a right to be raised in family environment.

4.    Those, who make decisions on important issues, concerning the child, have to be guided by his interests.

5. When you read this act, you will know your rights, whom and how you may contact to receive protection.

Right to protection

You have a right to protection when you are growing and development..

The discrimination against you, based on your look, race, nationality, gender, origin and education is strictly prohibited.

You have a right to your own language, culture and religion. 

Right to protection against violence

The maltreatment, insult and neglect of a child are not allowed.  

It is not allowed any child to be forced to do any kind of job that can be harmful to him.

If you are forced to beg, prostituate or suffering a sexual or other violence, you can seek protection.

You have a right to protection against forced involvement in religious sects.

Right to express yourself

You have the right to express your opinion on every issue that concerns your interests.

Your opinion has to be considered in taking decisions, connected with you, at home or at school, by the state bodies and in court.

Right to information and consultation

You have the right to be informed and consulted by the Child Protection Departments.

You may be consulted even without the permission of your parents if this protects your rights in the best way.

Protection of religious beliefs

To 14 years of age your attitude to religion is guided by your parents and from 14 to 18 years-based on a agreement between you and your parents or those who take care of you.

If you disagree with your parents you may turn to the Child Protection Departments.

Right to hearing in court

If your rights and interests are decided in court, you have the right to be listened to.

Before your hearing you must receive information to help you form your opinion. You have to be consulted for the eventual consequences from your wishes, from giving your opinion and about the court decisions.

This is done in a suitable atmosphere and in the presence of a social worker.

The decisions in court could not be announced without your permission if you are 10 years old.  

Your rights must be respected.