Vulnerability to exploitation and trafficking of Bulgarian children and adolescents in Greece. A case study of street based survival strategies in Thessaloniki

The immediate objective of this research is to give an indicative as well as detailed picture of the extent and specific dimensions of the phenomenon of child begging in Greece, particularly of children and families from Bulgaria. This group has increased rapidly in recent years, particularly in Northern Greece, with Thessaloniki – where the research was mostly carried out – as a main destination. The information gathered throughout the research led to the conclusions that there is a clear and urgent need for transnational coordination and immediate adoption of measures in both countries. These measures should be part of a comprehensive and effective plan of action aimed at understanding, monitoring, tackling and ultimately addressing the phenomenon as well as creating/activating a web of services for social assistance and protection of children.