Prisons are generally not designed as child-friendly spaces. Children who visit their imprisoned parents are often exposed to intimidating and harsh environments.
The COPE Network has provided a significant contribution to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child’s General Comment 27…
COPE’s ongoing work on its Data with a Purpose initiative has advanced knowledge on existing and future methods of data collection for prisoners upon entry.
Who we are
Children of Prisoners Europe (COPE) is a pan-European network working with and on behalf of children with imprisoned parents.
Our vision
That every child be guaranteed fair, unbiased treatment, protection of his or her rights, and equal opportunities regardless of gender, social, economic or cultural heritage.
Our mission
To safeguard the social, political and judicial inclusion of children with an imprisoned parent, while fostering the pursuit and exchange of knowledge which enhances good practices, and contributes to a better understanding of the psychological, emotional and social development of these children.
Children’s rights
COPE’s work is underpinned by the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), the EU Strategy on the Rights of the Child and the Council of Europe Recommendation CM/Rec(2018)5 of the Committee of Ministers to Member States Concerning Children with Imprisoned Parents.