Since images of Romanian orphanages shocked the western world into action, the abandoned children of Romania live better lives today, with one cot each, more nurses to cuddle them and toys aplenty. But while western aid has undeniably helped the situation, much of the money has been mismanaged, and aid is still seen as a short-term solution. In order to lower the rising orphan rates, the government is working with NGOs to get the children fostered. Up to $40 a month has been made available to families willing to look after orphans, and the deal is working well for the new carers: "I love children. Financially it's good as it means I'm officially employed so I will get a pension." But the Minister for Child Protection believes communist attitudes are stagnating the rate of change. "It's very difficult to change the accepted opinion that the state is raising children because for years the state looked after family responsibilities." As ever money in Romania is in short supply, and orphanages without foreign charity support are falling behind.

Produced by Jo Kearney