Eu journeys first presentation
Στη Βαγία της Αίγινας στις 20.8.2025 πραγματοποιήθηκε με επιτυχία η πρώτη,
δοκιμαστική παρουσίαση του ντοκιμαντέρ που δημιουργήθηκε στο πλαίσιο του
ευρωπαϊκού προγράμματος EU Journeys.
Στην εκδήλωση παρευρέθηκε η Αλεξάνδρα Δημητρακοπούλου, η οποία είχε
παραχωρήσει συνέντευξη, εκτός των άλλων,για τις ανάγκες του ντοκιμαντέρ και
απάντησε σε ερωτήσεις που σχετίζονταν με το θέμα. Παράλληλα, συμμετείχαν
πολίτες από την Ελλάδα, την Ιρλανδία, τη Λευκορωσία και την Τσεχία,
προσφέροντας μια πολύχρωμη ευρωπαϊκή οπτική.
Περισσότερα για το ευρωπαϊκό πρόγραμμα στα πλαίσια του οποίου επιχορηγείται η
δράση μπορείτε να δείτε εδώ:
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-259391
Μετά την προβολή, ακολούθησε μια δημιουργική και γόνιμη συζήτηση γύρω από: τα
υπέρ και τα κατά της ευρωπαϊκής ολοκλήρωσης, τις προκλήσεις που προκύπτουν
κατά τη συλλογή και αποτύπωση των διαφορετικών απόψεων, καθώς και τις
προσωπικές αντιλήψεις κάθε συμμετέχοντα για το τι σημαίνει η Ευρώπη και
ευρωπαϊκή ολοκλήρωση.
Η βραδιά ολοκληρώθηκε σε ιδιαίτερα ζεστό και φιλικό κλίμα, αναδεικνύοντας τη
σημασία του διαλόγου, της ανταλλαγής εμπειριών και της κοινής ευρωπαϊκής
πορείας.
Ιδιαίτερη μνεία για το ξενοδοχείο Βαγία για τη ζέστη φιλοξενία και την
υποστήριξη του στην προβολή του ντοκιμαντέρ.
Ευχαριστούμε θερμά όλες και όλους για τη συμμετοχή!
EN
In Vagia, Aegina, on August 20, 2025, the first trial screening of the
documentary created within the framework of the European program EU Journeys
was successfully held.
The event was attended by Alexandra Dimitrakopoulou, who had given an
interview for the documentary, among other contributions, and answered
questions related to the topic. At the same time, citizens from Greece,
Ireland, Belarus, and the Czech Republic participated, offering a colorful
European perspective.
More information about the European program supporting this initiative can be
found here:
https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-259391
After the screening, a creative and fruitful discussion followed on:
the pros and cons of European integration,
the challenges arising during the collection and recording of different
viewpoints, and the personal perceptions of each participant about what Europe
and European integration mean.
The evening concluded in a particularly warm and friendly atmosphere,
highlighting the importance of dialogue, the exchange of experiences, and the
shared European journey.
Special thanks go to Vagia Hotel for its warm hospitality and support in
hosting the screening of the documentary.
We warmly thank everyone for their participation!
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CHILD PROTECTION
POLICY (CPP)
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Ver. 01/13.08.2025
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English
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Effective Date: 13.08.2025
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Adopted by EVROPAIKI POLITEIA (EUROPEAN REPUBLIC)
PIC 937472215, Registration Number: 30138, VAT: EL997168041, established
in THESSALIAS, 129, PETROUPOLI ATHINA 13231, Greece, represented by Panagiota
(Ila) Ioakeim – President
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Approved by: Panagiota (Ila) Ioakeim
(President, EUROPEAN REPUBLIC)
Signature(s):
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1. Purpose and Scope
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This Child Protection Policy (CPP) outlines EUROPEAN REPUBLIC’s
commitment to safeguarding all children involved in any project or
initiative of the organization from harm, abuse, and exploitation. It has
been developed in line with international standards, European Union laws, and
Greek national legislation on child protection. The policy’s purpose is to
ensure that every child’s rights, safety, and dignity are respected
during all of the organization’s activities.
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The scope of this Policy extends to all personnel associated with EUROPEAN
REPUBLIC under any project. This includes employees, volunteers, contractors,
partners, and any other representatives who interact with children or young
people through project activities. All such persons are required to adhere
to this Policy and its procedures. The Policy applies in all settings of
any project – whether events, workshops, interviews, online interactions, or
any other engagement involving minors.
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2. Legal Framework and Principles
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EUROPEAN REPUBLIC’s CPP is grounded in key international and EU child
protection instruments. It upholds the principles of the United Nations
Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and complies with EU law,
including the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights (Art. 24 on children’s rights)
and relevant directives such as Directive 2011/93/EU on combating
sexual abuse and exploitation of children, and Directive 2012/29/EU on
victims’ rights. These frameworks emphasize that the best interests of the
child are paramount and that children must be protected from all forms of
violence.
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This Policy also aligns with Greek national legislation. In
particular, it reflects the requirements of the Law 3500/2006 on combating
domestic violence; Law 3625/2007 (ratification of Lanzarote Convention); GDPR
as per Law 4624/2019 and related laws. Under Greek law, a “child” is
any person under 18 years of age, and all children have the right to
protection from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and any actions that may harm
their health, development or dignity. The Policy incorporates these national
legal standards to ensure compliance with local obligations.
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Key Principles: The implementation of this Policy is guided by
fundamental principles of child safeguarding:
• Zero Tolerance for Abuse: Any form of child abuse or
exploitation is unacceptable. All concerns will be taken seriously and
addressed promptly.
• Child-Centered Approach: The child’s welfare and best interests
are the primary consideration in all actions. Children have the right to be
heard, and their views respected in accordance with their age and maturity.
• Confidentiality and Privacy: Child protection matters are
handled with discretion. Personal data of children is protected in line with
GDPR (EU Regulation 2016/679) and Greek law, ensuring confidentiality
and privacy.
• Accountability: All representatives of the project are
accountable for upholding this Policy. Breaches of the Policy or Code of
Conduct will result in disciplinary action and, where appropriate, legal
consequences.
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3. Definitions
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For the purposes of this Policy, the following definitions apply:
• Child: Any person below 18 years of age. (In line with Article 1
of the UNCRC and Greek Child Protection laws.)
• Child Abuse: Any form of physical, emotional, or sexual
mistreatment of a child, including neglect or exploitation, that harms or
poses a risk of harm to the child’s health, survival, development or
dignity. This encompasses: physical abuse (inflicting bodily harm or pain),
emotional/psychological abuse (causing mental distress through threats,
humiliation, bullying, etc.), sexual abuse (involving a child in sexual
activities, including grooming or pornography), neglect (failing to
provide for a child’s basic needs), and commercial or other exploitation
(using a child for labor, profit, sexual services, trafficking, etc.).
• Child Protection: The set of policies, measures and practices
designed to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, exploitation or violence
against children. Child protection involves ensuring children’s safety,
well-being, and rights are safeguarded – within the family, institution, or
any environment – and that appropriate action is taken whenever a
child is in danger.
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4. Prevention Measures
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EUROPEAN REPUBLIC is dedicated to creating a safe environment for
children in all project activities. To prevent abuse and ensure children’s
well-being, the organization implements the following measures:
• Safe Recruitment and Screening: Staff and volunteers who
will work with children are carefully selected. Background checks (including
verifying absence of criminal record for offenses against children) may be
conducted as allowed by law. All personnel must formally agree to abide by this
Child Protection Policy and the Code of Conduct before involvement.
• Training and Awareness: All project staff and volunteers receive guidance
or training on child protection principles, how to recognize signs of child
abuse, and the procedures for reporting concerns. The CPP is circulated and
explained so that everyone understands their responsibilities.
• Safe Program Design: Activities involving children are planned with risk
mitigation in mind. Adequate supervision ratios are maintained (ensuring an
appropriate number of adults present relative to children). Activities take
place in child-friendly spaces and, when possible, with parental consent and
knowledge. Transportation, filming, or any activity with minors follows
safety guidelines (e.g. no adult should be alone with a child out of sight of
others).
• Communications and Media: When collecting stories, photos, or videos
as part of any project, the dignity and rights of
children are respected. Informed consent of the child and
parent/guardian is obtained before using any child’s image or personal story.
Children’s identity and personal data are protected in publications (no
personal details will be disclosed without permission). Content portraying
children will be used ethically and never in a way that is exploitative or
harmful.
• Partnerships: If the project engages external organizations or
contractors to work with children, EUROPEAN REPUBLIC will brief them on this
Policy and ensure they commit to child protection standards. Any partner must
agree to adhere to equivalent child safeguarding measures.
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5. Reporting and Response
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Despite preventive measures, incidents or suspicions of child abuse may
occur. EUROPEAN REPUBLIC has established a clear reporting mechanism
to ensure any concerns are addressed swiftly and appropriately. All
project personnel are obliged to report any child protection concerns,
whether the alleged harm is by a staff member, another child, a
family/community member, or any other person. The following procedure must be
followed for reporting and responding to child protection issues:
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Reporting Procedure: If a staff member or volunteer suspects or
becomes aware of any child being abused or at risk:
1. Ensure Immediate Safety: If the child is in immediate danger or
needs urgent medical care, the first priority is to ensure the child’s safety
– e.g. separate the child from the source of harm and seek medical help or
call emergency services (tel. 112 in Greece) if required.
2. Report to Safeguarding Focal Point: Contact the designated
Safeguarding Focal Point (see Section 6 for contact) as soon as possible,
ideally within the same day of the incident or disclosure. This can be
done verbally initially, but must be followed by a written report using the
Incident Reporting Form (Annex 2) within 24 hours.
3. Preserve Evidence: Avoid probing the child with leading
questions, but do listen and reassure them. Do not conduct an investigation
yourself – just gather the essential facts. Preserve any evidence (if
applicable) and keep detailed notes of what was observed or disclosed,
including dates, times, names of people involved, and exactly what was said
by whom.
4. Confidentiality: Share information only with those who need to
know – namely the Safeguarding Focal Point and relevant authorities. Do
not discuss the matter broadly to protect the privacy and rights of the child
and others involved.
5. External Notification: The Safeguarding Focal Point will assess
the report and take necessary action. In accordance with Greek law,
serious allegations or suspicions of child abuse must be reported to the
appropriate authorities. This may include notifying the relevant Child
Protection authorities, or the Police/Prosecutor’s Office, depending on the
case. The Focal Point will ordinarily make this referral without delay
(within 24 hours of receiving the report) if the situation warrants.
6. Support to the Child: The organization will ensure that the
affected child receives appropriate support. This may involve psychological
support or counseling, medical assistance, or other care as needed. The
child’s best interests and well-being will remain central throughout
the process.
7. Internal Follow-up: If the alleged perpetrator is associated with
the project (e.g. staff or volunteer), EURO REPUBLIC will take immediate
steps to prevent further contact between that individual and children (such
as suspension from duties) while the investigation is ongoing. Disciplinary
proceedings will be initiated according to organizational rules, up to and
including termination of engagement if the allegations are substantiated. The
organization will cooperate fully with law enforcement or child protection
authorities in any investigation.
8. Documentation: All reports and actions taken must be documented.
The Safeguarding Focal Point will maintain a confidential register of
incidents and outcomes. After resolution, an internal review will be
conducted to learn from the incident and strengthen prevention if necessary.
Important: Retaliation against anyone who reports a concern in good faith is
strictly prohibited. Likewise, malicious or knowingly false allegations are
also a serious breach of the Policy.
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6. Key Contacts for Child Protection
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For questions, advice, or to report a child protection concern within any
project of the organization, the primary contact point is the designated Safeguarding
Focal Point at EURO REPUBLIC. Additionally, national authorities in Greece
are available to respond to child protection issues. Key contacts are listed
below:
Safeguarding Focal Point (EURO REPUBLIC):
Mrs. Panagiota Ioakeim,
President.
Tel: +302108203116, +306972622032 Email: europaikipoliteia@gmail.com.
National Child Protection Authority:
Συνήγορος του Παιδιού (Greek
Ombudsman – Child’s Rights Section)
Address: 17 Chalkokondyli St., 104 32 Athens.
Tel: +30 213 1306600. Email: child@ombudsman.gr.
Police: In emergencies or if a child is in immediate danger, contact the police
by dialing 112. The police in Greece have specialized units for minors and
will coordinate with child protection services as needed.
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7. Implementation, Monitoring, and Review
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This Child Protection Policy becomes effective once approved by the
President of EURO REPUBLIC and the management of the organization. All
employees and associates of EURO REPUBLIC participating in any project will
be required to formally acknowledge this Policy (for example, by
signing a declaration of commitment or the Code of Conduct in Annex 1). The
Policy will be made publicly available, including on EURO REPUBLIC’s website
and any related project website, to demonstrate transparency and
accountability.
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The implementation of the Policy will be monitored by the Safeguarding
Focal Point. Regular checks and discussions will be conducted to ensure
compliance (e.g. verifying that training has occurred, that procedures are
followed, and that any incidents are handled as per policy). Any challenges
or lessons learned in applying the Policy will be documented and addressed.
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This Policy will be reviewed at least annually, or earlier if
there are changes in applicable law or if monitoring indicates a need for
revision. Updates or revisions must be approved by the organization’s
leadership. All staff will be informed of any changes, and the revised policy
will be re-issued and acknowledged by personnel. By implementing this Policy,
EURO REPUBLIC aims to create a strong safeguarding culture and ensure that
the organization’s projects provide a safe and enriching experience for all
children and young people involved.
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Annex 1: Child Protection Code of Conduct
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All employees, volunteers, and associates of EURO REPUBLIC must adhere to
the following Code of Conduct when interacting with children. This Code of
Conduct forms an integral part of the Child Protection Policy and is aimed at
preventing misbehavior and promoting a child-safe environment. By signing
this Code, individuals affirm their commitment to uphold the highest
standards of behavior.
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Acceptable Behaviour – You MUST:
• Treat children with respect, dignity, and kindness. Value their
ideas and opinions.
• Ensure that all interactions with children are appropriate and take
place in open or visible environments. Whenever possible, have another adult
present or in sight when working with children.
• Listen to children and allow them to ask questions and express
their views. Pay attention to any signs that a child may be upset or in
distress.
• Use positive language and encouragement. Be patient and supportive;
provide praise and feedback rather than criticism.
• Maintain professional boundaries at all times. Be a positive role model
in conduct, dress, and manners.
• Obtain consent from a child and their parent/guardian before any
one-on-one interaction (such as interviews or mentoring), and keep such
meetings transparent (e.g. in a public space or with door open).
• Immediately report any suspicious behavior or allegations of abuse as
per the reporting procedures in this Policy.
• Comply with all screening and vetting requirements and participate in
training on child protection as required.
• Protect privacy: Keep all information about children (personal
data, stories, images) confidential and handle it in accordance with data
protection rules and this Policy.
• If uncertain about something that concerns child safety, seek guidance
from the Safeguarding Focal Point.
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Unacceptable Behaviour – You MUST NOT:
• Never abuse or exploit a child in any way – this includes not
hitting or physically harming, not humiliating, not harassing, and not
engaging in sexual or inappropriate conduct of any kind.
• Do not develop close personal relationships with children that could be
seen as exploitative or sexual. Never initiate romantic or sexual contact
with a child, or behave in a manner that could be misconstrued as such. This
includes inappropriate gestures, language, or physical contact.
• Do not spend time alone with a child out of public view, except if
absolutely necessary for the child’s welfare (and with consent and
transparency). Avoid taking a child to your home or visiting a child's home
alone.
• Do not give gifts or money to individual children without
organizational approval, as this can be misinterpreted (any support to
beneficiaries should be part of official project activities). Similarly, do
not accept expensive gifts from children or their families.
• Do not take photographs or videos of children without consent from the
child and guardian, and do not share or publish any images or information
that could identify a child without permission. Never view, share, or
circulate child pornography – this is illegal and strictly prohibited.
• Do not use language or make suggestions in front of children that are
sexual, derogatory, or inappropriate. Refrain from any form of bullying or
discrimination towards, or in the presence of, children (including based on
gender, race, ethnicity, disability, etc.).
• Do not touch a child in an inappropriate or culturally insensitive
manner. Any physical contact should be only if necessary (e.g. comforting a
distressed child with a pat on shoulder) and in a safe, open setting.
• Do not ignore or dismiss a child’s concerns or allegations of abuse.
Always take any report from a child seriously and follow the reporting
procedures.
• Do not drink alcohol, use drugs, or be under the influence while
responsible for children, and do not provide any such substances to minors.
• Never retaliate against or discourage a child or colleague from
reporting concerns. Every person has a duty to enable safe reporting.
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By signing this Code of Conduct, I acknowledge that:
– I have read and understood the Child Protection Policy and Code of
Conduct of EURO REPUBLIC.
– I agree to abide by the rules and standards described, and I understand
my duty to protect children’s safety and rights.
– I understand that any breach of this Code or the Policy may result in
disciplinary and/or legal action
Name: …………………………………………
Role: ………………………………………..…
Date: ……………………………………..……
Signature: ……………………………………………………
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Annex 2: Incident Reporting Form (Template)
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In case of a child protection incident or concern, the following form
should be completed by the person reporting the issue (staff, volunteer,
etc.) and submitted to the Safeguarding Focal Point. This template ensures
that all relevant information is captured for proper action.
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Date of Report: ……………
Name of Person Reporting:
…………………………………………………… (Position/Role: ………………………………)
Contact information: (phone/email) ……………………………………
Child’s Name: …………………………………..
Age: ……… Sex: ………
Parent/Guardian Name (if known): ………………………………………………..………
Contact: ……………………………………………
Description of Incident/Concern: (Include when and where it
happened, who was involved, what was observed or said. Attach extra pages if
needed.)
Immediate actions taken: (e.g. medical care provided, child removed from
danger, etc.) ………………………………………………….
Were authorities contacted? (Police/Child Protection Services) Yes/No
– If yes, date/time and person spoken to: ……………
Names of any witnesses: ………….………… (Contact info: …………………………..…………)
Additional information or observations: …………………………………………………………
Reported to (Safeguarding Focal Point): …………………………………………………………
Date: …………
Follow-up actions by Safeguarding Focal Point: (to be filled by
Safeguarding Focal Point – e.g. referred to authorities, support provided to
child, outcome, etc.)
Signature of Person Reporting: …………… Date: ……………
Signature of Safeguarding Focal Point: …………………………………………………………
Date: ……………
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