STA, 24 January - The opposition Democrats (SDS) tabled on Friday a proposal to raise the age of eligibility for child maintenance allowance from 18 to 26 or until parents are obliged to provide financial support for their children.
The party believes that the changes to the public guarantee and maintenance fund would reduce the number of cases where child support is not provided for those above the age of 18.
The amendment would ensure equal treatment of all those eligible for child support, said the SDS, adding that those who are furthering their education and are not employed after turning 18 are currently not entitled to financial protection and child support recovery and are thus worse off.
Children's right to maintenance is one of the basic children's rights, ensuring a favourable environment for their development, highlighted the party.
In 2017, some 4,300 minors received child support allowance, quite an increase compared to 1,900 in 2000. Given this surge, the party has concluded that unpaid child support cases are on the rise. Last year, some 17,100 persons of age and studying were eligible for child support, according to the SDS.
