OFFICIAL NAME
International Catholic Child Bureau
ACRONYM
BICE (Bureau International Catholique de l’Enfance)
ESTABLISHED
1948
HISTORY
BICE was founded in Paris to support those within the Catholic community who are committed to promoting the rights of children and ensuring the holistic development of every child. It made a significant contribution to the drafting of the 1989 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Among BICE’s initiatives with global impact are the launch of the first international programme for the children of inmates, pioneering work on the relationship between humanitarian principles and State sovereignty, and its contribution to promoting the International Year of the Child. Previously recognised by the Holy See, BICE was decreed as an International Association of the Faithful by the Pontifical Council for the Laity’s on 6 January 2006. As an Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), BICE holds consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc), the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie, and maintains operational relations with Unesco.
IDENTITY
Taking a Christian anthropological approach, BICE promotes the rights of every child with unconditional respect for each child as a person, in full recognition of their culture, community and religion. Particular care is devoted to children living in situations of deprivation or disability, children in street situations, child affected by armed conflict, children who are victims victims of all forms of violence, and children in conflict of the law.
In all its work on behalf of children, BICE gives special attention to their psychosocial and spiritual needs by promoting education, a supportive family environment, a sense of responsibility, self-confidence, spiritual growth, and openness to intercultural dialogue.
To fulfil its mission, BICE develops pilot projects, as well as medium- and long-term programmes. It also mobilises civil society and seeks to influence public policies in favour of the rights of children.
ORGANISATION
BICE is governed by the following bodies:
The General Assembly, composed of all members of the Association. It meets annually and elects the members of the Board of Directors.
The Board of Directors, composed between 10 and 15 members. It determines BICE's strategic priorities and approves its programme of activities in accordance with the guidelines adopted by the General Assembly.
The Bureau, comprising the President, the 2 Vice-Presidents and the Treasurer.
The Ecclesiastical Assistant and the Secretary General participate in these bodies in an advisory capacity.
PUBLICATIONS
Enfants de partout, published quarterly; Monthy electronic Newsletter; different specialized publications related to BICE projects.
WEB SITE
HEADQUARTERS
Bureau International Catholique de l’Enfance
9 Rue Delta - 75009 Paris - France
Tel. [+33]1.53 35 01 00
Email: contact@bice.org
