The Challenge of Stigma is a new initiative led by COPE, exploring how stigma affects children who have a parent in prison and how creative activities can help challenge it. Through three art-based projects piloted by COPE members in France, Spain and Poland, children will…
We know that cross-sectoral collaboration is needed so that children are considered from the moment of a parent’s arrest through to their sentencing, imprisonment and reintegration. Yet achieving interconnected coordinated action requires…
The third edition of the European Game with Mum & Dad (GWMD) project officially kicked off at Rapotice Prison in Czechia on 30 May 2026 and then at Brno on 6 June.
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.
“It was short but beautiful”
“I wish we could play outside together”
