The Latin America Regional Governing Body Executive Committee (LA RGB EC), chaired by Baladeva d, met on September 16, 2025, with the Child Protection Oversight Committee (CPOC) to review the progress and challenges of child protection service in the region. While Latin America is divided into four GBC areas, only a few countries have established Child Protection Teams thus far.

What shines through most is the dedication of the devotees serving in this area. Despite limited resources, child protection work is being carried out entirely by devotee volunteers who give their time and energy out of care for the safety of children. This speaks not only to their commitment but also to the potential for growth once stronger structures and support systems are in place.

Encouraging developments are already underway. Training is being consistently conducted in Spanish, and it has been agreed that CPOC will support the region with practical tools, including translations of key documents, connections with regional legal professionals, and the launch of a new online learning platform through CPOC’s Safeguards Office. Next steps will also involve a closer collaboration with national child protection directors and the Regional Director to ensure alignment and shared momentum.

The meeting affirmed that while there are challenges, the foundation is strong: a network of sincere, service-minded devotees ready to protect and care for the most vulnerable. With steady support and growing collaboration, we trust that child protection in Latin America will continue to blossom into a sustainable, well-rooted service for generations to come.

As Baladeva prabhu humbly expressed, “I would like to mention the noble service given by Citra Gopi dd from Argentina, as well as Visala das, Murtimati dd, and Omkara prabhu from Peru.” Of course, he did not mention his own tireless service but it is one without which CPO in Latin America could not stand.

Photo courtesy of Arjun Bhattacharyya Photography