JRS Reception Centre for Unaccompanied Minor Asylum Seekers and Vulnerable/Separated Children Marked World Social Work Day
04 May 2026
By JRS Bosnia and Herzegovina
On the occasion of World Social Work Day, the JRS Reception Centre for Unaccompanied Minor Asylum Seekers and Vulnerable/Separated Children marked this important date through a series of activities with beneficiaries and a professional team of social workers employed by JRS and engaged as Legal guardians, with a particular focus on the role of social workers in the child protection system.
The central part of the commemoration was the visit of social work students from University Rotterdam, organized in cooperation with the Association of Social Workers of Sarajevo Canton, which created space for meaningful professional and intercultural exchange of experiences.
This visit was of particular importance as it enabled direct engagement of future social workers with practical work in the context of migration and the protection of unaccompanied children. Through joint activities, students had the opportunity to become familiar with the alternative care model implemented at the JRS Reception Centre, as well as with the challenges and specificities of field work, while professionals shared their experiences, approaches and methods of practice.
At the same time, through interactive workshops, group discussions and informal activities, children and students participated in the exchange of personal stories, perspectives and experiences, creating a space for mutual understanding, learning and the development of empathy. This type of interaction contributed to strengthening the social skills of children, as well as to enhancing the professional sensitivity of students for working with vulnerable groups.
Through their daily work with unaccompanied and separated children, Legal guardians – social workers employed by JRS, play a key role in ensuring the best interests of the child, providing continuous support and monitoring their development and integration. This model of work is implemented in close cooperation with the Social Welfare Centre of Sarajevo Canton as a key institutional partner, ensuring alignment with the social protection system and continuity of care for children.
A special emphasis was placed on the importance of intersectoral and international cooperation, where partnership with the Social Welfare Centre of Sarajevo Canton, as well as collaboration with other non-governmental organizations and state institutions, represents a key element in ensuring quality and sustainable care for children. It is precisely through such encounters and exchanges of experience that professional capacities are strengthened and innovative approaches in working with children on the move are developed.
Marking World Social Work Day also served as an opportunity to recognize the dedication and professionalism of social workers and all experts involved in the work of the JRS Reception Centre, whose engagement contributes daily to creating a safe and supportive environment for children.
Through continuous work, cooperation and exchange of knowledge, the JRS Reception Centre remains committed to strengthening the child protection system and developing sustainable, child-centred solutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
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