Brussels, 19/03/2009 (Agence Europe) - On Thursday 13 March, MEPs urged EU member states to give their support to children left behind in countries of origin and affected by the professional migration of their parents to other member states. The European Parliament has, in effect, adopted a resolution by 579 votes for, 21 against, with 3 abstentions, which calls on member states to implement cooperation mechanisms to prevent negative repercussions on families, particularly children, created by lack of family life. MEPs are primarily urging the Commission to carry out a study into the extent of the phenomenon of migrant children left behind in countries of origin at a European level, and to collate relevant data on this question. Given the risks affecting the physical and mental health of children, MEPs are also encouraging member states to adopt measures to improve the situation of these children and guarantee them normal development in terms of education and social life. Member states are also called on to better inform immigrants and their families about their rights regarding freedom of movement and available information at a national and European level, on living and working conditions in another member state. MEPs are requesting the Commission and member states to proactively involve social partners and NGOs in actions focusing on improving the lives of migrant children. A study carried out by UNICEF and Social Alternatives in Romania revealed that in 2008, the parents of at least 350,000 children worked abroad and that almost 126,000 children are affected by the migration of two of their parents. (B.C./transl.rh)