Algiers, 16 August 2019 - Within the Framework of The Regional Development and Protection Program for North Africa (RDPP) which aims to "reinforce the social cohesion between migrants and the local population”, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) office in Algiers, in cooperation with Caritas Algeria, organized a full day of entertainment for migrant children at the Paroisse Saint François d'Assise in Burdj El Kiffane, Algiers.

The event was attended by over 100-migrant families comprising of 125 children from different nationalities and cultural backgrounds, all residing in Algiers. The day began with a breakfast cocktail, which served as the perfect opportunity for the migrant families to reconnect with old friends, and be introduced to new ones.

Following the meal, the children were invited into the activities-room where they were welcomed by balloons, drawing tools, and painting utensils and were given the opportunity to express themselves through art. Once they finished, they were greeted by a make-up artist who painted their faces as cats, butterflies and more. Before leaving the room, the children left their hand imprints on a drawing of a white dove and an olive branch to symbolize their aspiration for peace.

Outside awaited a performance, music, and tons of bubbles. The children were surprised with an entertaining show that included magic, dancing, juggling clubs, spinning plates, and a clown that made them laugh hysterically. At the end of the day, IOM staff handed out gift bags containing baby formula, diapers, baby-toys, caps, dolls, and footballs.

This event further reaffirms IOMs beliefs in the rights of migrant children and is in line with promoting the implementation of all articles present in The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child including article 31 part 1 which calls upon its “States Parties [to]recognize the right of the child to rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities appropriate to the age of the child and to participate freely in cultural life and the arts.”

For more information, please contact Wassila Ould Hamouda at IOM Algeria, Tel: +213 661 992 312, Email: wouldhamouda@iom.int