Child Migration and the Construction of Vulnerability

This report attempts to look beyond the current policy-emphasis on “trafficking” and ”unaccompanied” child asylum seekers to consider broader questions about when and why migration can be associated with the violation of children’s rights. It looks at the global context in which child migration is set and the factors that prompt children to migrate. The problems and risks that they face in the transit from one country or region to another; and their experience in the destination country. Particular attention is paid to the relationship between children’s immigration status and their vulnerability to rights’ violations in the destination country. The report then considers evidence on the experience of children who are left behind when one or both parents migrate.