Protecting Asylum Seeking Children

Across the Americas, communities struggle to meet the needs of newcomer children and youth. Often, there is little support from state and federal agencies for these children. In this webinar, we examined the needs of these children and ways to help them find stability and safety in their new communities.

Children need to be educated about their rights and protection as they navigate asylum and immigration processes. Providing children with clear and simple explanations is critical to ensure that they understand what is happening to them. This includes simple language and diagrams, as well as maps. In addition, repetition of the information will ensure that it is understood. This takes into account the young person’s journey from bewilderment to understanding.

Children seeking asylum move into a broader landscape of displacement, which is shaped by a multitude of factors. The children must adapt to a new environment, balancing physical, mental, and psychological needs. Their journey is marked by a host of paradoxes. They need support, protection, and a sense of belonging to help them adjust to their new environment.

Children seeking asylum are often subjected to a variety of screening processes. Some may be eligible for a humanitarian protection, while others will be turned down. Children with the proper documentation can have their asylum claims approved.