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.