What is the definition of a child in need of protection?

A child who is at risk of being, or is being, or has been abused or neglected. According to the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, it includes children or young people  without a parent, guardian or caregiver who can assume parental responsibility for their safety and wellbeing, nor is willing and able to protect them from abuse or neglect or the risk of abuse or neglect.

A network of essential stakeholders and systems – education, health, welfare, justice, civil society, community and family – working together to prevent abuse, exploitation, neglect and other forms of harm against children and to protect and assist children in these situations. They provide care to the most vulnerable, including children uprooted by conflict or disaster; victims of child labour or trafficking; and those who live with disabilities or in alternative care (UNICEF).