In the aftermath of an earthquake, there is a high risk of children becoming separated from their families. Children separated from their families are at extremely high risk of emotional and psychological distress, abuse and exploitation, and other forms of violence.
Save the Children is currently coordinating with the Government of Türkiye’s Ministry of Family and Social Services who have set up family reunification and tracing mechanisms, so any child identified as unaccompanied or separated from their parents can be referred for support.
Adoption is not an appropriate response for unaccompanied children until local authorities and humanitarian agencies have exhausted all efforts to trace and reunite them with their families and extended community.