Moving children from institutions back to families

In this episode of the LocalLink Hub podcast, we explore the inspiring work of Nisma Arsis, an organization dedicated to protecting vulnerable children in Albania. Our guest, Anna Majko, Executive Director of Nisma Arsis, shares her journey from studying psychology to becoming a leader in child protection. With over 13 years of experience, she has played a key role in supporting children affected by trafficking, abuse, and exploitation. She explains how her organization started by helping children in street situations and has since expanded to offer a range of services, including community centers, emergency shelters, and family support programs.

A major focus of our discussion is the importance of moving children out of institutions and back into family care. Anna shares how Nisma Arsis, in collaboration with local authorities, has been working to close residential care institutions and develop community-based services that keep children with their families. She explains why institutional care is not a suitable solution for children and how supporting families directly can lead to better outcomes. By working closely with municipalities and advocating for foster care systems, they are making real progress in shifting child protection policies in Albania.

We also touch on the complex and sensitive issue of human trafficking. Anna describes the challenges of identifying and rescuing children who are at risk, often due to poverty and exploitation by criminal networks. She highlights the difficulties of reintegrating these children when systemic gaps, such as a lack of foster care options and social services, make it hard to provide long-term solutions. Despite these obstacles, Nisma Arsis works tirelessly with law enforcement and social workers to ensure that trafficked children receive the protection and care they need.

Finally, Anna shares a heartwarming success story of how Nisma Arsis helped close two institutions and transition children back to family-based care. She discusses the positive impact this change has had on children’s lives and the ongoing efforts to expand this model. This episode is a powerful reminder that every child deserves a safe and loving home, and that local organizations like Nisma Arsis are making a real difference in their communities. Tune in to hear more about their work, the challenges they face, and their vision for a future where no child grows up in an institution.