News

20 January 2026

"All children have the right to have a say when decisions are made that affect their lives. All children have the right to life and personal integrity. You have the right to be well fed and to live in a comfortable home. All children have the right to free healthcare. All children have the right to education, free of charge, regardless of where they live – in a small village or a big city. All children, regardless of their family, gender, religion or origin, have rights that protect them when someone threatens them in any way."

With these words, Ombudsman Velislava Delcheva opened her meeting with 11^th and 12^th grade students from “Simeon Radev” Professional High School of Economics in Pernik and 5^th, 6^th, and 7^th grade students from 106^th “Grigoriy Tsamblak” Primary School in Sofia. The visit was arranged by their teachers so that the young people could learn more about their rights and the possibilities for seeking protection from the Ombudsman Institution in case of violation of those rights.

During the discussion, Delcheva gave examples of situations in which children's rights may be threatened – abuse at home and violence at school, as well as abuse on social media. She pointed out that such problems could arise from peers and adults, as well as from the actions of various institutions..

"When you feel uncomfortable, harassed, or bullied in any way, the Ombudsman is one of many adults who can help you," Delcheva assured. She also explained the ways in which children and young people may contact the institution of the public defender—in person, by phone, email, through the website, and social networks. "You may also write to me via messenger; I always respond," Delcheva added.

The students also heard about real cases from the Ombudsman's practice – assistance with enrolling children in school at the last minute before the start of the school year, as well as a cancellation of a fine from the Traffic Police due to poor road conditions.

The practical task, in which they were divided into three groups and assigned the roles of student, principal, and ombudsman, aroused the greatest interest. Through discussion, they came to the conclusion that when making important decisions, it is important to hear the opinions of all parties involved.

At the end of the visit, the students also visited the Ombudsman's office and were delighted to sit in the public defender's chair.