Modern Mobility: The role of ICTs in child and youth migration

“Modern Mobility: the role of ICTs in child and youth migration” presents an overview of how children and youth on the move are using information and communication technologies (ICTs) of their own accord. It takes a look at:

– how children and youth are using ICTs to prepare for migration; to guide and facilitate their journey; to keep in touch with families; to connect with opportunities for support and work; and to cope with integration, forced repatriation or continued movement; and

– how civil society organizations are using ICTs to facilitate and manage their work; to support children and youth on the move; and to communicate and advocate for the rights of child and youth migrants.

There are an estimated 214 million international and 750 million internal migrants globally, and the number of global migrants is expected to grow to 400 million by 2040. Almost half of migrants are female. It is estimated that 33 million (or some 16 percent) of the total migrant population is younger than age 20, including 11 million children between 15 and 19 years old. Child and adolescent migrants make up a significant proportion of the total population of migrants in Africa (28 percent), Asia (21 percent), Oceania (11 percent), Europe (11 percent), and the Americas (10 percent).

When children and youth migrate, they are subject to increased vulnerability. Access to information and being able to communicate and connect with family, friends, support systems, and services reduces this vulnerability and increases opportunities for improved well-being. The growth in access to ICTs may allow youth to better manage migration and reduce risk.

 Recommendations included in the report:

1) establishing an active community of practice;

2) mapping and sharing current projects and programs;

3) creating a guide or toolbox on good practice for ICT s in this work;

4) providing guidance on how ICT s can help “normal” programs include children and youth on the move;

5) further documenting and developing an evidence base;

6) sharing and distributing this report for discussion, action, and comments