The Inter-American Children’s Institute celebrates its 82nd Anniversary

Since its foundation, on June 9, 1927, the Inter-American Children’s Institute has worked constantly to promote and guarantee the rights of children and adolescents in the Americas.

The IIN began its work as the "International American Institute for the Protection of Children", as an initiative of the eminent Uruguayan pediatrician Luis Morquio, M.D., who conceived the idea of creating an Inter-American Institute as a center for studies, action and dissemination of all matters relating to children and adolescents in the region.

Later, in 1949, the Institute became part of the Organization of American States (OAS) as a specialized organization, and although until the mid 1950 it had mostly a medical-pediatric approach, the institute always was convinced that the issues of childhood and adolescence should be addressed in a comprehensive manner and not through partial actions.
 
This comprehensive vision led to the establishment of several technical areas, which over the years were modified to we adapted to the different realities experienced by children and adolescents in the Americas.
 
The achievements throughout these 82 years have been many and in various ways. Through its researches, the IIN has done valuable and innovative contributions in the field of law, affecting almost all American law in relation to children and adolescents.

In addition, it has provided technical assistance to governmental and nongovernmental institutions dedicated to the care of families at social risk and contributed to the creation of programs for early intervention and stimulation for children with different capacities in many countries of the region.

The contributions have also been significant in terms of training, since through its courses, workshops, virtual and in presence seminars, the IIN has managed to convey knowledge and skills to improve the care given to children, adolescents and their families.