Caritas International Belgium Large teddy bear brings the experience of refugee children to Brussels
21/09/2026

A large teddy bear has appeared at some of Brussels’ best-known locations, from Brussels-Central and the Grand Place to Flagey and Saint-Gilles. The unusual sight is part of Humanity Is Unstoppable, a new campaign by Caritas International Belgium highlighting the experiences of children forced to flee their homes.

From memories to the screen

The bear is the central character in a campaign film, Dans ses bras, directed by Belgian filmmaker Jef Boes. Through the bear’s eyes, viewers follow a child’s journey from leaving home to arriving somewhere safe and beginning to build a new life.

Most of the film was shot at De Logies van Louvranges in Wavre, a reception centre for single mothers and children. Residents of the centre took part in the film, recreating scenes inspired by their own experiences.

For Boes, the teddy bear represents the role played by Caritas International in accompanying people through the difficult transition.

For many children forced to leave suddenly, a cuddly toy can be one of the few personal possessions they take with them. In the film, the teddy bear travels with Ousman and his parents, witnessing their abrupt departure and the uncertainty that follows.

But the story also focuses on what comes next: a safe place to stay, school, a new language, friendships and plans for the future.

A safe place to start again

Caritas International says the campaign is intended to underline the importance of dignified reception for people fleeing conflict and other crises.

A safe place, it argues, provides the stability needed to focus on everyday life again: going to school, finding work, building a social network and making plans for the future.

At De Logies van Louvranges, mothers and children receive more than accommodation. With guidance and support they work towards greater stability.

Caritas International says reception systems are under increasing pressure as crises become more prolonged and migration policies become more restrictive. The organisation argues that migration policy should include protection, safe routes and dignified reception.

Samuel Cogolati, director general of Caritas International Belgium, says the campaign is intended to put a human face on a debate that is often dominated by statistics.

More information

Press contact: Anke Harthoorn | a.harthoorn@caritasint.be | +32 483 34 79 01
Photos and additional comments are available on request.

About Caritas International Belgium 
Caritas International Belgium provides reception and support in Belgium to people forced to flee and others in vulnerable situations. It also provides humanitarian assistance to people and communities affected by war, disasters and poverty around the world.

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