The Global Phenomenon of Migration and Its Predicament for Unaccompanied and Separated Minors

Migration as a global phenomenon is characterized by the voluntary and involuntary movement of people from their countries worldwide. People voluntarily and involuntarily leave their countries for various reasons. Those migrants who leave their countries of origin become vulnerable during their journey to the country of destination and during their stay in the host country. The most vulnerable segment of migrants is unaccompanied and separated minors. Unaccompanied and separated minors flee from their countries of origin without the support of their parents due to persecution, international conflicts, civil wars, forced recruitment as child soldiers, harmful cultural practices, natural disasters, severe poverty, trafficking in various forms and contexts, including being sold by parents and the search for better economic opportunities. They face risk factors regarding gender status, health, education, and social welfare. The rights and protection of unaccompanied and separated minors are enforced through international legal instruments. They can be enhanced by initiating practical interventions, including improving coordination and communication among various stakeholders rendering services to unaccompanied and separated minors, strengthening a multi-disciplinary approach, and capacity building of personnel working in the field of unaccompanied and separated migrant minors. Essential to achieving realizing the desired outcome in changing the plight of unaccompanied and separated minors is to facilitate fundamental change in the mindsets of authorities and officials towards foreigners and the development of relevant competency skills and knowledge.