A recent study by UN agencies revealed that over 20,000 migrant children, out of 31,100 who arrived in Europe last year, were unaccompanied by their parents or guardians. The study highlighted the risks and violations these minors face along migration routes. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), this data exposes the extent of children being subjected to violence and exploitation due to limited safe migration pathways.
The IOM's Director-General, Amy Pope, emphasized that these findings underscore the need for urgent action to protect migrant children. She stated that it is unacceptable for children to face such risks alone, stressing the importance of ensuring their safety and well-being. The study also noted a 25% decline in the total number of children arriving in Europe by land and sea compared to 2024.
However, the proportion of unaccompanied minors increased from 51% to 67% during the same period. Italy received over 12,000 unaccompanied children, mostly from Egypt, Eritrea, Bangladesh, Somalia, and Sudan. Spain hosted over 4,700 unaccompanied minors, primarily from Algeria, Morocco, Mali, and Senegal. These numbers highlight the growing trend of children migrating alone to Europe.
The IOM warned about the dangers of migration routes to Europe, citing that nearly half of migrants aged 15-24 reported experiencing physical violence during their journey, particularly in Libya. The organization urged European Union member states to prioritize the best interests of children in migration decisions and ensure they receive essential services promptly.
The IOM also called for an end to the detention of minors due to their migration status. The organization emphasized the need for a child-centered approach to migration policies, ensuring that children's rights and needs are respected and protected. This includes providing access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.
In response to the growing number of unaccompanied minors, the Moroccan government has been working to strengthen its migration policies. The country has been a key transit point for migrants attempting to reach Europe. Morocco has also been working to improve its bilateral relations with European countries to address migration challenges.
The issue of migrant children has become a pressing concern for European countries, with many calling for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to address the root causes of migration. The UN's findings highlight the need for urgent action to protect the rights and well-being of migrant children.
Key points
- Over 20,000 unaccompanied migrant children arrived in Europe last year, out of a total of 31,100.
- The proportion of unaccompanied minors increased from 51% to 67% compared to 2024.
- The IOM is urging European countries to prioritize the best interests of children in migration decisions.
