Recommendation to Make Guardianship for Migrant Children More Effective

The Committee of Ministers has adopted a Recommendation to member States on effective guardianship for unaccompanied and separated children in the context of migration.

Migration puts children, especially unaccompanied or separated from their parents, in a very vulnerable position. Children are forced to flee or migrate from their homes for various reasons: to escape from conflict, violence, for the purpose of family reunification, as a result of changes in the environment that affect their lives, or the search for better economic, social or cultural conditions. Such a journey increases the risk of violating their fundamental rights and freedoms.

This Recommendation seeks to ensure that unaccompanied and separated children’s rights and their best interests are respected in line with international and European standards. It also seeks to ensure that guardianship is effectively provided and is appropriate to the rights and specific needs of the children concerned.

Some essential principles and implementing guidelines target both decision-makers and practitioners working to secure the protection, reception, care and wellbeing of unaccompanied and separated children through guardianship.

Read more: European Council of Ministers, https://is.gd/Fwl8HS