UNICEF calls for family reunification of migrant children in Latin America and the Caribbean
Governments urged to prioritize best interest of children on the move
Panama City, 10 September 2024 - As the number of migrant children in Latin America and the Caribbean continues to rise, UNICEF is urging governments to prioritize family reunification and protection.
Families in the region are often forced to flee their homes due to poverty, violence, and natural disasters, the organization's regional office said in a statement. The release noted that many of these families include children, who have the right to be with their loved ones, regardless of their migration status.
"UNICEF reminds governments of their obligation to ensure border and reception processes do not result in deliberate or inadvertent family separation. It only adds an extra layer of stress and trauma to their lives."
According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, all children have the right to be with their families. The regional office reminded governments of their obligation to uphold this right and ensure that children are not separated from their caregivers.
"Whether travelling with their family or alone, migrant and refugee children are entitled to a process to have their best interests properly assessed with a view of identifying sustainable solutions, including further integration and settlement in the country of current residence, repatriation to the country of origin or resettlement in a third country," said the statement. "They also have the right to claim asylum and not to be returned to places where their lives or well-being are at risk."
UNICEF's Efforts in Trinidad and Tobago
In Trinidad and Tobago, UNICEF is working with civil society organizations, such as the Archdiocesan Ministry for Migrants and Refugees (AMMR), to support family reunification and provide alternative care options for unaccompanied and separated children (UASC).
The Children on the Move: Child Protection Working Group (CPWG) established an Alternative Care Sub-working group (AC-SWG) in 2019 to strengthen protection and assistance for UASC. The Alternative Care Program (ACP) was created to provide safe and appropriate care arrangements for UASC, including reunification with parents, placement with extended family members, or placement with another willing and suitable migrant family.
