ISO introduces global standards for child-friendly support services
This initiative aims to transform the way child victims receive care, protection and justice.
In a move to address the pervasive issue of violence against children, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has introduced the first international guidelines aimed at enhancing the support systems for child victims. Unveiled on 12 March 2025 during the 58th UN Human Rights Council, these guidelines establish a global framework for child-friendly, multidisciplinary, and interagency (MDIA) response services.
The prevalence of childhood violence is alarmingly high, with UNICEF reporting that over a billion individuals have experienced violence during their formative years. This exposure has profound and lasting effects on mental and physical health, cognitive development, and educational outcomes.
The newly established ISO guidelines advocate for a holistic, child-centred approach that ensures coordinated and trauma-informed responses to young survivors. This initiative seeks to prevent re-traumatisation by integrating services across various sectors, including social work, law enforcement, healthcare, and legal entities.
The development of these guidelines was spearheaded by the Ministry of Education and Children of Iceland, drawing inspiration from the Barnahus model. Originating in Iceland, Barnahus – meaning ‘Children’s House’ -offers a child-friendly environment where multiple agencies collaborate under one roof to support children who are victims or witnesses of violence. This model has been widely adopted and endorsed by international organisations for its effectiveness in providing integrated services.
The formulation of these guidelines was a collaborative effort involving over a hundred contributors, including representatives from UNICEF, the Council of Europe, Europol, Eurojust, and various UN bodies. Notably, the perspectives of child abuse survivors and children were integral to the development process, ensuring that the guidelines are grounded in real experiences and needs.
This initiative aligns with the UN sustainable development goals, particularly Target 16.2, which seeks to end abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children, and Target 16.3, promoting equal access to justice for all. By establishing these international requirements, ISO aims to foster a unified and effective global response to protect and support child victims of violence.
