The total number of unaccompanied children in the three inspected centres of the State Agency for Refugees with the Council of Ministers is 60. The non-governmental sector works actively on different projects for social adaptation of children refugees in Bulgaria. Psychological assistance is provided to every child who needs it. In addition, the children study Bulgarian history, the traditions and customs of the country. Sports events are held every month in SAR centres and contests of children’s drawings are often organised. The main recommendation of the Ombudsman acting as NPM, namely establishing a separate centre for unaccompanied minors with the State Agency for Refugees with the Council of Ministers, has been partially implemented by setting up “safe zones” in the Reception and Admission Centres in Sofia (in Voenna rampa and Ovcha kupel neighbourhoods). In May 2019, the first safe zone was opened in IPP Voenna rampa with capacity for 100 children. In October 40 children were accommodated there. The safe zone was renovated and has controlled access in place, fully meeting the children’s needs. The children placed in the safe zone receive educational, medical and psychological support. A major problem with the unaccompanied children refugees is the assignment of their legal representative. Pursuant to Article 25 of the Law on Asylum and Refugees, this is an obligation of the mayors of municipalities in which the reception centres are located in Bulgaria. The NPM established the ongoing practice of one legal representative to be responsible for many children while holding another position in the respective municipality. In this regard, the NPM reiterates the recommendation made in the thematic report for 20161 on establishing a working institute of legal representation of unaccompanied minors, setting in place criteria for the officials acting as legal representatives, and delivering additional training to these officials. 1 The report is available on: https://www.ombudsman.bg/pictures/Doklad%20nepridrujeni%20detca,%20bejantci.pdf 32