The best interests of the child in modern society constitutes a fundamental guideline binding on every individual, but especially on public authorities and institutions that deal with children whose care is not or is not adequately provided by their parents and whose development is therefore compromised. In principle, parents are expected to look after the child's welfare, providing a loving and understanding environment in which the child can grow and develop properly. Parents are protected against State interference in family environment as long as they act in favour of the child and do not abuse their parental role or duties. In such case, the State has a duty to respond and, through its authorities, ensure the best interests of the child. To this end, the Family Code, as a fundamental regulation of family law, provides an uniform system of measures, clearly defining the roles and guidelines of the various authorities.
The subject of this master thesis is the authorities involved in the decision-making procedures on measures for the protection of the child. Regarding this, the role of the court is deciding on the matter, social welfare authorities have supportive and advisory role. These are the central bodies dedicated to specifically protecting the child's interest through a set of measures. Because of the complexity and sensitivity of decision-making process regarding this issue, judges and social welfare authorities need help and support of other organizations and institutions involved. Other such institutions and persons are mainly the child's school, healthcare institutions and various other institutions, professionals or persons dealing with the actual child at risk. Close and coordinated cooperation between authorities on measures in question, to safeguard the best interests of the child, is crucial and is what effectiveness depends on in terms of further achieving the best interests of the child in the long term.
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