100 years of service
present in over 120 countries
75’000 families supported each year
The International Social Service (ISS) founded in 1924 is now present in more than 120 countries and is a global actor in child protection, welfare, and uniting families across international borders
as well as counselling and support to families who are in distress.
of protection of children deprived of families and promote good practices.
of each child to grow up in a family environment through advocacy and research.
through training, evaluation, capacity building, and identification of local resources to ensure sustainability.
to all stakeholders involved in the protection of children deprived of families, alternative care and intercountry adoption.
in case of divorce and child abduction across borders, preserving the best interest of the child.
ISS global program “A better future is possible” is designed to promote safe, nurturing family care for children out of parental care with a specific focus on children with disabilities. This includes supporting national care reforms for children in particular efforts towards family reunification, alternative family-based care, and influencing main stakeholders toward family care.
ISS has produced numerous publications on various issues relating to child and family protection. These documents provide updated information and critical analyses on legislation, practices and challenges. The publications are the result of comprehensive research relying on various sources of literature and resources. Numerous experts from the ISS network have also been consulted, and their input represents a significant added value to the works.
From 2013, ISS called for urgent international regulation of international surrogacy arrangements as they affect the children concerned. The initiative launched by ISS in 2016 resulted in the Verona Principles for the Protection of the Rights of the Child Born Through Surrogacy, which were published in 2021 following a comprehensive consultation process as well as substantive contributions from over 100 experts covering multiple disciplines and perspectives, regions, national and international contexts.
To make a difference in someone’s life, you have to care by donating your time or money.
