Guinea-Bissau Enacts Comprehensive Child Protection Law

On June 9, 2026, Guinea-Bissau's Council of Ministers approved a new decree-law establishing a comprehensive system for child protection, aiming to strengthen the legal framework safeguarding children's rights in the country.

Presented by the Ministry of Women and Social Solidarity, the legislation outlines principles and coordination mechanisms among state institutions to ensure the full protection of children. It focuses on preventing violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination against minors.

The Ministry's statement emphasized that the new system seeks to provide more effective and coordinated responses to situations of risk and vulnerability, placing the "best interests of the child" at the center of all public actions and decisions.

With this approval, Guinea-Bissau advances in fulfilling its commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and other regional and international instruments for child protection. The system will involve government bodies, development partners, civil society organizations, and communities.

This legislative development marks a significant step forward in Guinea-Bissau's efforts to enhance child welfare and protection, reflecting a commitment to upholding children's rights and well-being.