12 May 2020

On 11 May 2020, the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) published the report “Relocation of unaccompanied children: applying good practices to future schemes” which highlights the challenges and good practices gathered in the implementation of different relocation programmes of unaccompanied minors in the EU since 2015.

This report is a useful resource for States which are participating in the current relocation scheme of minors from Greece to other EU countries. It looks at the whole procedure in which the child is involved, starting from the moment a child is identified for relocation until the child’s integration in the Member State of destination.

The report aims to help ensure that ongoing and future relocation efforts are in line with the fundamental rights of children, and practically feasible at the same time. FRA calls on the EU and its Member States to consider the following four measures:

• putting in place reasonable timelines for relocation of unaccompanied children that allow for the effective protection of the child;

• using eligibility criteria based on the child’s vulnerability and protection needs;

• ensuring the child is supported by a legal guardian during all steps in the relocation;

• maintaining family unity and facilitating family reunion if this is in the best interests of the child.

Download: “Relocation of unaccompanied children: applying good practices to future schemes