Homes catering for up to 12 children as well as institutions offering a family-like atmosphere for a maximum of 48 children will be created, Balog told a press conference marking the 20th anniversary of Hungary passing its child protection law.

In line with the amended law on child protection, all healthy children below the age of 12 are to be sent to foster homes.

The role of foster parent is now recognised as employment, which comes with an increased wage and eligibility for pension and health insurance, he added.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.