Country : Benin

Organization Name : CLOSE

Overview : Comité de Liaison des Organisations Sociales de défense des droits de l’Enfant (CLOSE) is a network of more than 30 NGOs concerned with the protection of children against sexual abuse and commercial sexual exploitation. CLOSE was established in 1998 and became an affiliate member of ECPAT International in March 2002. This network was set up in order to mobilise actors to combat trafficking and child sexual exploitation. Enfants Solidaires d’Afrique et du Monde (ESAM) is the coordinator for the network.

CLOSE is involved in the implementation of a bilateral agreement with Nigeria to combat trafficking. For lobbying purposes, CLOSE is represented in the National Unit of Coordination and Monitoring for the Protection of Children and works in collaboration with other members. The permanent Secretariat is within the Ministry of Family, Women and Children. CLOSE is a member of the Child Trafficking and Exploitation, Violence against Children and Juvenile Justice working groups.

Membership Status : Affiliate Groups