Voices from the Silent Cradles: Life Histories of Romania's Looked-After Children

In 1990, disturbing television footage emerged showing the inhumane conditions in which children in Romanian institutions were living. This book sheds light on the lived experiences of these children, who had become adults by the time the country joined the EU, challenging stereotypes about these types of care.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 242 pages
Publication date: 10 January 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Disturbing television footage from 1990 revealed the horrifying conditions in which children resided in Romanian institutions. The footage shocked viewers, as the babies were seen to be silent, emphasizing the profound neglect and abuse they faced. These children, known as the "Romanian orphans," became the focus of numerous international research studies, as countries sought to understand the challenges and complexities of their care.

Concurrently, Romania embarked on a significant reform process to meet the criteria for membership in the European Union. Recognizing the need for improvement in its child protection system, the country sought to align its practices with European standards and ensure the well-being of its children.

This book is a powerful exploration of the lived experiences of these children, who had grown into adults by the time Romania joined the EU. It brings together the accounts of individuals who had experienced different forms of care, including those who stayed in institutions, those who grew up in foster care, and those who were adopted both in Romania and internationally. Through their narratives, the book challenges prevailing stereotypes and sheds light on the diverse realities of these care experiences.

The accounts provided by the individuals in this book are raw and honest, offering a glimpse into the hardships, resilience, and triumphs of those who had been through the Romanian child protection system. They share their struggles with identity, attachment, and the search for belonging, as well as the challenges they faced in transitioning to adulthood.

The book also highlights the systemic issues and challenges that contributed to the conditions in which these children lived. It explores the historical context, political factors, and social attitudes that shaped the child protection system and the broader societal attitudes towards children and care. It sheds light on the complexities of the adoption process, the role of international organizations, and the efforts made by governments and individuals to improve the lives of these children.

Overall, this book is a valuable contribution to the understanding of the experiences of Romanian orphans and the broader issue of child protection. It provides a deeper insight into the lives of these children and the challenges they faced, while also challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy and understanding. It serves as a reminder of the importance of reforming and improving child protection systems to ensure the well-being and futures of all children.

Weight: 368g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447357995