Missing Children Europe is an organisation which aims to ensure that every EU member state has the necessary procedures and regulations in place to deal with cases of missing and/or sexually exploited children, and are able to both provide support for the victims, and take steps to prevent future disappearances. It is an umbrella organization for 24 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) throughout Europe.
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History
Missing Children Europe was established in 2001 by Child Focus (Belgium), La Mouette (France), Aurora (Italy), Initiative Vermisste Kinder (Germany) and Rat auf Draht (Austria). Missing Children Europe gained financial independence in 2008, as it obtained a grant from the European Commission.
Missing Children Europe was the driving force behind the launch of 116 000, an emergency number which provides immediate support when children go missing.
Constituent organizations
The 24 NGOs represented by Missing Children Europe are:
Funding
65% of Missing Children Europe's funds come from the European Commission Daphne Programme, and the remainder is collected through fundraising events, structural partnerships and membership fees.