Family Demands Release of Boy from Controversial Care Center

Family members of a boy residing in the Ljubović Center, a facility for children with behavioral issues, organized a protest on March 15, 2024, demanding his release. They believe the decision made by the social welfare center to place him in the institution was a mistake and have reached out to various government ministries and the president, urging intervention.

The boy’s family gathered outside the center around 16:30 local time, where they were met by the director, Nina Delević, who attempted to address their concerns. Relatives expressed their desire to see the boy, noting that he has been in the center for a month without anyone from his paternal side visiting him.

In response, Delević explained that they were following directives from the social welfare center. She stated that only nine family members, who received authorization for visits, were permitted to see him. Delević further clarified that the center could not allow additional visitors due to a lack of consent from another facility located in the north.

Family members criticized the policies in place, arguing that visitation rules are more lenient in correctional facilities, where individuals convicted of serious crimes are held. They contend that the social welfare center made an erroneous choice in placing the boy in the Ljubović Center, claiming he is neglected and facing challenges at home.

The boy’s aunt spoke to a local journalist, sharing that his parents are divorced and not providing adequate care. She highlighted that she had previously requested a review of the parents’ suitability but received no response. According to her, the boy has faced bullying at school, leading to physical altercations with peers due to taunts about his family situation.

She criticized the overall system, stating it fails to address such issues effectively. The aunt recounted instances where the boy pleaded for help, expressing his inability to continue attending a school where he is bullied.

“Dijete je zanemareno u porodici. I want to be his guardian and guide him on the right path,” she said, adding that she would take responsibility for his behavior and upbringing. She proposed that he could stay with her until he reaches 18 years old, after which he could return to his mother if necessary. Alternatively, she suggested that he could be placed with a foster family or in a children’s home in Herceg Novi, emphasizing that the authorities must prioritize the child’s best interests.

She plans to write to various institutions in the coming days, consult with a lawyer, and seek guardianship over the child. The aunt reiterated that the boy does not belong in the current institution.

In a letter sent to government officials, family members expressed their concern for the boy’s well-being in the Ljubović Center. They stated that since his placement, they have been denied any communication with him. They have visited daily for a month, only to be told he is under “punishment.” They alleged that staff members are abusive, calling for urgent action from the government to either release him or transfer him to a facility where he can receive proper education and support.

In their letter addressed to President Jakov Milatović, they requested the cancellation of the social welfare center’s decision that placed the boy in the correctional institution.

In contrast, the Ljubović Center has denied allegations of mistreatment. Director Delević stated that the facility operates according to professional protocols and that no child has been abused, either by staff or other residents. She emphasized that the boy has the right to contact and visits from nine family members, which are regularly facilitated through phone calls or personal visits.

Delević also explained the necessary procedures for family members seeking to increase visitation rights, stating that they must obtain consent from the relevant social welfare center, which has yet to provide the required authorization for the additional contacts.

“This institution works in compliance with regulations, ensuring the best interests of each child, and we will continue to do so,” Delević concluded, defending the center’s practices amid rising tensions.