Proposed declaration to European Commission on children’s rights

Labour MEP Marlene Mizzi presented the European Parliament with a written declaration on the protection of the right of minors to maintain a meaningful relationship with both parents, even if the latter would legally separated or divorced.

The declaration, written with MEPs from the different political groups, urges the European Commission to raise awareness of the right that every child has, in conformity with the Charter of Fundamental Rights, to maintain on a regular basis a personal relationship and direct contact with both his or her parents, unless that is contrary to his or her interests.

"Children's rights should always be on the forefront of our agenda. It is worrying that children become trapped in their parents' fights. Children should have the full opportunity to hold a good relationship with both parents," Mizzi said.

The written declaration will be made available for three months for other Euro parliamentarians to sign. Once a majority is obtained, the declaration will be passed on to European institutions for action.

Mizzi said that society in general should ensure that children do not suffer harsh consequences of adults' decisions.

The declaration states that across the EU, all too many separated fathers and mothers are denied the right to maintain a meaningful relationship with their children, when sole custody is granted to the other parent.

"This has a negative impact both on the life of the child and on that of the 'excluded' parent," the declaration adds.