THEMATIC BRIEFING | MAY 2020 Birth registration and the prevention of statelessness in Europe 19 9. Conclusion and key actions This briefing has demonstrated the links between birth registration and the child’s right to a nationality, as well as providing an overview of the current state of play on birth registration law, policy and practice in Europe. Drawing on data from the Statelessness Index, it has highlighted some of the good practices in ensuring every child has access to immediate, free birth registration and is provided with a birth certificate, whilst also presenting some of the persisting barriers that prevent universal birth registration from being realised in some countries and, as a result, continue to expose children to the risk of statelessness. Key action areas The following four key action areas highlight where urgent attention is needed from policy and decision-makers to address remaining barriers to birth registration, prevent statelessness and ensure every child born in Europe acquires a nationality. Action is needed from regional institutions, including the European Union and Council of Europe, to promote and facilitate universal access to birth registration in Europe and beyond; by States, to ensure national law and policy meets international and regional standards; and by local authorities with competence in these key action areas, to ensure appropriate procedures, guidance and capacity are in place at local level. 1 Access to immediate, free birth registration and certification for all children, regardless of their parents’ documentation or residence status, or other aspects of their identity • Allow for flexibility (in law and practice) in the documentation required for birth registration • Build the capacity of civil registry officials to identify and eliminate discrimination and take necessary steps to facilitate registration for those who cannot meet requirements • Issue birth certificates to all children regardless of parents’ documentation or residence status, or any other aspects of their identity (including sexual orientation or gender identity) • Remove barriers to reproductive healthcare preventing women from giving birth in public health facilities and registering the births of their children • Facilitate late registration after the deadline has passed by simplifying procedures, removing punitive fines or fees and ensuring flexibility where documentation or other requirements cannot be met • Provide accurate, targeted and accessible public information about birth registration procedures