Caroline Vrijens

Caroline Vrijens holds a law degree with a specialisation in International and European Law. She also obtained a postgraduate degree in Social Profit and Public Management.

For the past three years, Caroline has worked as an advocacy expert for an international NGO, focusing on children in youth care. During this time, she published the report *Ordinary Children in an Unusual Situation* (SOS Children's Villages, March 2017). She also led the Leaving Care campaign and developed an innovative project aimed at further deinstitutionalising youth care in Flanders.

From 2007 to 2014, Caroline worked as a policy officer within the Flemish government, focusing on the implementation of Integral Youth Aid. Her work also included promoting the participation of children and young people and advancing children's rights.

Since 1 August 2019, Caroline Vrijens has served as the Flemish Commissioner for Children's Rights. In this role, the Children's Rights Commissioner's Office monitors signals from children, young people, and professionals. It also mediates, investigates complaints, and advises on policy matters (www.kinderrechten.be).