Protection of missing children

In a small town in Serbia, a group of adolescent girls living in a residential care facility began to show subtle but concerning changes.

These girls had already faced difficult beginnings—growing up without stable family support, experiencing neglect, and longing for a sense of belonging and acceptance. Like many children in alternative care, they were especially vulnerable to manipulation and false promises of affection.

During the summer, unknown young men started gathering near the facility. What initially seemed like casual encounters soon developed into something far more concerning.

By early autumn, staff noticed that several girls were leaving the facility without permission and returning after hours—or even days—appearing withdrawn, anxious, and physically neglected. One girl required medical treatment. Others were later seen begging in the city.

It became clear that the girls had been spending time with a group of adults living nearby. The relationships were presented as “romantic,” but behavioral patterns pointed to grooming—in which attention, affection, and validation are used to gain trust and control.

Despite the risks, the girls initially insisted they were acting voluntarily. This is common in such cases. Emotional manipulation often makes it difficult for children to recognize exploitation, especially when their need for connection is being used against them.

Everything began to shift when a coordinated response was initiated.

ASTRA’s outreach team, together with the Centre for the Protection of Victims of Human Trafficking and local professionals, engaged directly with the girls and the facility staff. Through careful, trauma-informed conversations, trust slowly began to build.

One moment stood out: during a conversation, a girl received a phone call from one of the men. Her visible fear and anxiety helped professionals recognize the level of control these individuals had over her and others.

This became a turning point.

A coordinated protection plan was put in place:

• The girls received immediate psychosocial support in a safe environment
• Their movements were more closely monitored to prevent further contact with exploiters
• Health services were ensured, including support for one girl who was pregnant
• Professionals worked intensively to help the girls understand manipulation, boundaries, and their rights
• Authorities conducted field visits and began investigating the suspected location and individuals involved

Most importantly, the girls were no longer left to navigate this situation alone.

Over time, small but meaningful changes became visible. The girls began to open up, support each other rather than compete for attention, and re-engage in daily routines such as school and structured activities. With continued support, they began rebuilding trust—in adults and in themselves.

While recovery is a long process, this case shows that timely, coordinated action can interrupt cycles of exploitation and create real opportunities for safety and healing.