Agenda for action for children on the move
UNICEF calls for action to protect, include and empower all children on the move.
UNICEF calls for six actions to protect, include and empower every child fleeing war, violence, poverty, disasters and climate events, as well as those moving in search of a better future.
Around the world, many of these children face danger, detention, deprivation and discrimination, and the world must stand up for them.
Children on the move are children first and foremost. They are entitled to the same rights as every child – and they have hopes, dreams and real potential to contribute to all communities.
Press for action on the causes that push children from their homes
Armed conflicts, violence, disasters exacerbated by climate change, and extreme poverty drive millions of children from their homes. UNICEF calls for greater efforts to protect children from conflict and to address the root causes of violence and poverty. Such efforts should include increasing access to services and social protection. Security, social cohesion and gender parity are essential for peaceful development, mitigating the risk that families resort to dangerous migration journeys.
Prepare for climate displacement and provide safe climate mobility options for children and families
Millions of children are being driven from their homes by weather-related events exacerbated by climate change, with migrant, displaced and relocated children among the most vulnerable and least equipped to cope. UNICEF urges governments to reduce displacement risk through inclusive disaster risk reduction and preparedness, making systems and services more climate-resilient, portable and accessible to the most vulnerable children as they move. Supporting green jobs and skills for youth, especially adolescent girls, and providing safe migration options for climate-affected children and families are also key to their well-being and future.
Protect children on the move from harm and keep families together
Displaced and migrant children, especially those separated from families, are vulnerable to violence, abuse, exploitation and trafficking, with girls at greater risk of gender-based violence. UNICEF calls for more safe and regular pathways for children to migrate and to seek refuge, and for policies to prevent family separation. Combating trafficking, strengthening child protection systems and expanding access to information and mental health support are crucial for keeping children safe. All children should have a legal identity – fundamental for keeping families together. Children and families should never be returned to a place where they face persecution or life-threatening danger.
End the immigration detention of children
Detention is harmful to children’s health, well-being, and long-term development. UNICEF urges States to increase non-custodial measures for reception and care for all children, such as community-based accommodations with case management services. Unaccompanied and separated children should be placed in foster care, supervised independent living, or other family- or community-based living arrangements.
Ensure children on the move can keep learning and access social services
Many migrant and displaced children miss out on an education and other essential services. UNICEF calls for increased collective efforts by governments, communities and the private sector to provide children on the move with access to an education, health, mental health, and social and child protection services that enhance their safety and well-being. A child’s migration status should never be a barrier to accessing services.
End xenophobia and discrimination against children on the move
Children on the move face discrimination, xenophobia and stigma – during their journeys, at their destinations, and if returned, in communities of origin. UNICEF calls on leaders, religious groups, non-governmental organizations, the media and the private sector to combat xenophobia and the scapegoating of migrant and displaced communities, including through misinformation, disinformation and hate speech. Governments should also set up stronger measures to eliminate discrimination and marginalization across services and policies. All societies have a part to play in welcoming children on the move into cities and communities.
