Unaccompanied Minor Refugees

An “unaccompanied child” is a child separated from both their parents and other relatives who is not being cared for by any other adult who, by law or custom, is responsible for doing so.

Afghan child in Fylakio Centre Near the Greek-Turkish Border, Greece, February 2020
Afghan child in Fylakio Centre Near the Greek-Turkish Border, Greece, February 2020

Children separated from their parents and families because of conflict, population displacement or natural disasters are among the most vulnerable. Separated from those closest to them, these children have lost the care and protection of their families in the turmoil, just when they need them most. Refugee, migrant and displaced children are especially vulnerable to trafficking as they are escaping war or in search of opportunities.

Children make up almost one third of all human trafficking victims worldwide.