In a jointly launched report from UNICEF and Department of Social Welfare on “The Situation of Children in residential Care Facilities in Myanmar,” they express deep concern with the condition of private institutions. The press release says:

Some deeply concerning findings reveal, nearly three-quarters of children living in residential care facilities have one or both parents alive – and nearly ninety per cent of these children are to be found in private institutions. Over half of all children are brought to the facilities by their parents or relatives – the very people who are responsible to care for them.

Such practices are not in line with the United Nations Guidelines for the Alternative Care of Children, which state that the removal of a child from the care of the family should be seen as a measure of last resort and should, whenever possible, be temporary; for the shortest possible duration and take into account the views and best interest of the child.

Ms. Swales illustrated the emotional impact of neglect on children, which is common in typical residential care facilities where staff are unable to provide the emotional connectedness or nurturing that comes naturally in family environment and influence a child’s brain development. Considering the multiple consequences of maltreatment on physical, mental and social development of a child, the UNICEF Regional Advisor reiterated why residential care should be the last resort for child rearing.

Click hear to read the full press release.

This UNICEF report of July 2012 also mentions the concern with the unregistered faith-based institutions in Myanmar.

Download the full “Situation Analysis of Children in Myanmar” report of July 2012

Tearfund has a good document on Children in Residential Care and Alternatives.

Download Children in Residential Care and Alternatives