Hungary Yearly 100 children disappear for ever

May 25, 2008

Comment: On National Missing Children’s Day, the web-portal “Index” reports that in 2007 alone 10’000 children were reported missing in Hungary. The vast majority of children are found but last year at least 100 disappeared without a trace. Some just wander away for half day, others receive a bad grade, escape but then go back home after a few weeks. It is also quite common that a divorced parent takes the child abroad without the consent of the other parent.

In cases of missing children time is of the essence. The European helpline to be operational in Hungary from June 1st is supposed to help. The number 116-000 can be dialed by the children or their relatives who are assisted by professionals and provide counselling as well.

At the same time the number 116-111 will go online. This number can be called by children or young people if they have a problem at school or at home that they cannot discuss with anyone else. The article indicates that Hungary is first to introduce the missing children helpline and second in launching the child counselling helpline.

For the full text in Hungarian please click here