In Poland, more than 90,000 children* are growing up separated from a parent in prison, often without consistent or coordinated support. A new Charter signed on 19 March 2026 in Kraków aims to change that by placing their needs more firmly on the agenda of public institutions and…
Read the latest volume of the European Journal of Parental Imprisonment, a publication that brings together research and practice insights from across Europe to inform policy, services and advocacy.
In a powerful step toward more child-sensitive prison practice, two closely linked interactive workshops brought prison officers from across Greece together this December to focus on the rights and well-being of children visiting a parent in prison and to reflect on their own experiences…
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”
