Summary

In the report, the Special Rapporteur examines the international legal framework protecting the human rights of migrant children, in particular regarding their right to liberty as well as to adequate care and reception. The report reviews the impact of immigration detention on children and existing alternative care and reception solutions.

Based on information and analysis provided by States, civil society, national human rights institutions and other stakeholders, the report identifies good practices and concludes that immigration detention of children is effectively avoidable. The Special Rapporteur recommends Member States to shift away from a focus on enforcement and coercion towards providing human rights based alternative care and reception for all migrant children and their families.