#: locale=en
## Action
### URL
WebFrame_F5470AA8_EBE1_86CA_41B3_1B897FE9F604.url = ./globe/
LinkBehaviour_7D443C06_62A2_C103_41B4_58EDCB581C1C.source = https://publications.iom.int/books/regional-child-protection-operational-note
LinkBehaviour_9BFFA487_9B32_C292_41E0_A31423915969.source = https://publications.iom.int/books/regional-child-protection-operational-note
LinkBehaviour_88BA8B92_AC4C_CF29_41E3_C0FD941DF60C.source = https://www.iom.int/
LinkBehaviour_FA64316F_E6AD_BDBB_41E9_41D7AE759A93.source = https://www.unicef.org/
## Media
### Title
panorama_77FEECB4_FC14_DD39_41E8_0A395D772A79.label = MENAmap
## Skin
### Button
Button_83656F27_9435_A2E4_41C6_8B2501DE10B3.label = English
Button_8BEEE821_93F6_56B1_41D3_203B05972BA2.label = English
Button_8366FF28_9435_A2EC_41D7_525304E8B760.label = English
Button_85A329D4_93F2_C990_41DC_7F517C4EDEEF.label = English
Button_8BF97AA0_93F1_CBB0_41DD_C0846A6847C4.label = Français
Button_83679F2D_9435_A2E4_41CE_365325F2FEC6.label = Français
Button_83661F29_9435_A2EC_41CC_DF278AE783D0.label = Français
Button_8BF9AAA1_93F1_CBB0_4192_3028B0D9546E.label = Français
Button_83604F32_9435_A2FC_41DD_9F7862BA8010.label = العربية
Button_8BE2B66F_93F1_FAB1_41B1_ECAD01E04B2A.label = العربية
Button_80B15F00_942D_A29C_41CB_5198BC060DA2.label = العربية
Button_8367CF2A_9435_A2EC_41CD_F108C5A3CDB0.label = العربية
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Learn more about The Regional Child Protection Operational Note
Italy, lead of the RDPP NA Consortium
ESSENTIAL GUIDELINES FOR SOPS ON CHILD PROTECTION CASE MANAGEMENT AND CROSS BORDER COORDINATION FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE IN NORTH AFRICA
Funded by the European Union
BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION
FAMILY TRACING AND ASSESSMENT
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND FOLLOW UP
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
Child Protection Operational Note
funded under the Regional Development and Protection Programme Phase VI
Actors and responsibilities
Children on the move case management resource handout
International and regional legal frameworks
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
Regional child protection framework
Child’s Fundamental Rights
Cross-border coordination and continuum of care
The right to identity, birth registration and family tracing
Trafficking of children on the move
Vulnerabilities and Responses
*Source: Interagency case management guidelines 2024
Assess needs and strenghts of the child and their family
Identify vulnerable children and register according to eligibility criteria
Implement the case plan, including direct support and referrals
Develop an individual case plan for the child addressing the identified needs. Set time-bound actions and measurable objectives
ALTERNATIVE CARE FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION
BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION
BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION
BEST INTERESTS PRINCIPLE FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
CROSS‑BORDER COORDINATION
ESSENTIAL GUIDELINES FOR SOPS
FAMILY TRACING AND ASSESSMENT
FAMILY TRACING AND ASSESSMENT
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND FOLLOW UP
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
THE RIGHT TO IDENTITY AND IDENTIFICATION OF CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
Alternative care for children on the move
Best interests principle for children on the move
Cross‑border coordination
Sustainable solutions for children on the move
The right to identity and identification of children on the move
The Regional Child Protection Operational Note has been developed within the framework of the sixth phase of the IOM Regional Development and Protection Programme (RDPP) for North Africa, a regional initiative funded by the European Union through the Directorate‑General for Migration and Home Affairs and the Italian Ministry of Interior.
The Regional Child Protection Operational Note is a multifaceted practical tool to help stakeholders in North Africa and key countries across the migratory route, such as the Niger and Mauritania, to improve the protection of children on the move with a focus on cross‑border coordination. With a particular focus on cross‑border coordination, continuum of care and family tracing and reunification, the tool will support national key actors in the targeted countries to develop tailored SOPs or as a basis for cross‑border SOPs, both in line with recommendations from stakeholder consultations.
The Regional Child Protection Operational Note was drafted by consultant Vanessa Tullo, with the editorial team Rawaa Ahmed (IOM), Eva Pons (IOM), Laila Ziad (IOM), Clara Lopez (IOM), Giamaica Scoppa (IOM), Ruslana Sirman (UNICEF), Rosal Fisher (UNICEF), Adele Uwimana (UNICEF), Khaled Khaled (UNICEF).
The team deeply extends their gratitude to all the IOM and UNICEF Headquarters, UNICEF Global Migration and Displacement Hub, Regional and Country Offices in North, West and Central Africa who contributed substantially to the Operational Note. Without their efforts and continued support this would not have been possible.
Thanks also to colleagues who contributed to the layout and production, including Carmelo Torres (IOM) and the Publications Unit (IOM), Salim Oweis (UNICEF) and Nesma Al Nsour (UNICEF).
Actors and responsibilities
Child's Fundamental Rights
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Key services and contacts
Regional child protection framework
Trafficking of children on the move
Vulnerabilities and Responses
Children on the move case management resource handout
Cross-border coordination and continuum of care
International and regional legal frameworks
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
National child protection framework and system
The right to identity, birth registration and family tracing
Data protection and information management when protecting migrant children
Actors and responsibilities
Alternative care for migrant children
Challenges in identifying unaccompanied and separated children
Children on the move with disabilities
Child‑friendly interviews
Cross-border protection: case transfer
Data protection and information management when protecting migrant children
How to ensure cross‑border coordination during migrant children’s identification?
How to ensure cross‑border coordination for best interests process and continuum of care?
How to facilitate cross‑border coordination during the family tracing assessment?
Identification and evaluation of child protection risks
Indicators of child trafficking
Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and psychological first aid for children on the move
Response in gender-based violence (GBV) cases
– DOs AND DON’Ts
Safe referral for children on the move: victims of trafficking
Safe referral of children on the move survivors of gender based violence
Voluntary return and reintegration of migrant children
Vulnerable migrant children and intersectionality
Possible options may include the following:
Alternative care for migrant children
Challenges in identifying unaccompanied and separated children
Children on the move with disabilities
Child‑friendly interviews
Coordination procedure for identification and referral of children on the move to UN agencies for specific protection in Mauritania
Cross-border protection: case transfer
How to ensure cross‑border coordination during migrant children’s identification?
How to ensure cross‑border coordination for best interests process and continuum of care?
How to facilitate cross‑border coordination during the family tracing assessment?
IOM Assisted Voluntary Return And Reintegration (AVRR) for migrant children and cross‑border coordination
IOM and UNHCR cross‑border and transnational referral mechanisms
IOM and UNICEF Minimum Standards for Temporary Child Protection Care Facilities and Foster Care, in Countries of Transit / Destination During the Process of Family Tracing and Assessment / BIA / BID and/or as Alternative Care in Countries of Origin
IOM and UNICEF Reintegration Assistance Plan Template for Unaccompanied and Separated Children and the Reintegration Plan Template for Families with Children
Identification and evaluation of child protection risks
Indicators of child trafficking
Interagency standard operating procedures for the implementation of the Best interests’ determination process for children at risk in Libya
Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) and psychological first aid for children on the move
Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
Response in gender-based violence (GBV) cases – DOs and DON’Ts
Safe referral for children on the move: victims of trafficking
Safe referral of children on the move survivors of gender based violence
Specific indicators of child trafficking ‑ Egypt
The Government of Mauritania formal foster family system
Thematic coordination Groups for vulnerable migrants’ protection in Morocco
Voluntary return and reintegration of migrant children
Vulnerable migrant children and intersectionality
BEST INTERESTS PRINCIPLE FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
CROSS-BORDER COORDINATION
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
THE RIGHT TO IDENTITY AND IDENTIFICATION OF CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
ALTERNATIVE CARE FOR CHILDREN ON THE MOVE
*Source: Interagency case management guidelines 2024 - the need for consent or assent varies across age groups as outlined on the table, this may be adapted to local context and is relevant within the case management context.
Children aged 15 and above are considered sufficiently mature to make decisions specific to case management services.
Children at this age cannot legally consent but can assent to participate in case management services.
Children at this age cannot legally consent but can provide assent or indicate their ‘willingness’ to participate in case management services.
Informed assent and/or consent from the child
Informed assent from the child
Informed assent from the child
Informed consent from parent or caregiver with children consent
Informed consent from parent or caregiver
Informed consent from parent or caregiver
Informed consent from parent or caregiver
To be determine based on age and maturity of the childy
Very young children have limited capacity to understand complex decisions about their care and treatment.
Child protection Regional actors, such as the African Union and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child
Child protection and welfare State institutions
International and national and local CSOs
Law enforcement authorities (police, border guards, etc.)
Subnational and local child protection institutions and agencies
The following recommendations are the result of a regional research activity that included a desk review of the most current literature on protection of children on the move combined with field data collection and analysis.
The recommendations informed by North African key stakeholders involved in migration and child protection contribute toward the practical subregionalization of promising practices, lessons learned and insights toward overcoming challenges to the continuum of care and route‑based protection of children on the move within and from North Africa.
UN agencies and international actors (e.g. IOM, UNHCR, UNICEF, RAO, ISS, etc.)
» Address:
Ministry of Justice, Place Mamounia, Rabat
» Hotline for children victims of trafficking:
0800004747
» BP 622 Niamey‑Niger
Tel: +227 89 14 11 00
» Child Helpline +20 16000
» Helpline : +227 20752507
» iomniger@iom.int
» Helpline AVRR:
+222 48 88 11 55
» iomnouakchott@iom.int
» Helpline Rabat:
+212 537658859
+212 662794366
+212 655091687
» iommoroccoavrr@iom.int
» Helpline: +20 01028859777
+20 01028859666
+20 01120486345
» Emergency Overnight hotline:
+20 01028062178
» egycareintake@care.org
» Helpline: +20 2 25759451
» info@stars-egypt.org
» Helpline: +212 0808504829
» Coordoprojetoujda@ms2oujda.com
» Helpline: +212 524308695
» alkarammkh@yahoo.fr
» Helpline: +212 536604541
» asticudecontact@gmail.com
» Helpline: +212 537757992
» Helpline: +212 537793637
» Helpline: +216 71963383
» Helpline: +222 41 07 07 16
» ideveloppement@yahoo.fr
» Helpline: +222 46720704
» asseong@yahoo.fr
» Helpline: +227 20 72 71 00
» niamey@unicef.org
» Helpline: +227 20737411
» Helpline: +227 20752064
» Helpline: +227 92199385
» nia_tracing_services@icrc.org
» Helpline:+212 528215917
» voix.femmes.maroc@gmail.com
» Helpline:
+212 522756965
+212 661748575
» contact@association‑bayti.ma
» Hotline: +218 910011491
» Hotline: 0661696841
» algalreg@unhcr.org
» Hotline: 1111
+213 21362998
+213 23362142
» contact@onppe.dz
» Hotlines:
+218 910027716
+218 922767166
» Infoline: +20 0227390400
» Referrals for Child Protection: arecacp@unhcr.org
» Medical emergency hotline:
+218 910354839
» Hotline for general consultations:
+218 910347365
» National and Niamey helpline:
+227 20 72 54 74/75 ‑ 75 25 52/ 53
» Zinder helpline:
+227 20 510 843/20 510 845
» Maradi
+227 20 4115 48 / 49
» Wadata
+227 20 418 307/20 418 308
» Diffa
+227 20 540 038
» Niger@savethechildren.org
» Rabat
+212 07 00 08 85 23
upe.rabat2017@gmail.com
» Salé
+212 07 00 09 93 70
upesale2017@gmail.com
» Casablanca Anfa
+212 07 00 09 94 69
halimjamila.entraide@gmail.com
» Casablanca Sidi Bernoussi
+212 07 00 08 93 41
alaa.bodir@gmail.com
» El Jadida
+212 06 22 31 73 87
sanoussi.hiba2012@gmail.com
» Beni Mellal
+212 07 00 09 93 79
naima.bigane@gmail.com
» Fes
+212 07 00 08 84 90
encapefescape@gmail.com
» Meknes
+212 06 88 15 70 68
wafae_zizi@hotmail.com
» Tangier
+212 07 00 08 84 98
el.aaddaoui@gmail.com
» Tetouan
+212 07 00 09 94 24
elazifimohammed@gmail.com
» Oujda
+212 07 00 09 94 20
zekraouibenamar@gmail.com
» Berkane
+212 07 00 08 84 89
cape.berkane@gmail.com
» Nador
+212 07 00 09 93 84
Oumeima.dahmane1995@gmail.com
» Marrakech
+212 07 00 09 94 59
m.rida.fahmi@gmail.com
» Agadir
+212 07 00 09 94 26
zainanefatima5@gmail.com
» Laayoune
+212 07 00 08 85 19
abdsselamaayoune2018@gmail.com
» Reception desk Tunis:
+216 71 720 200
» Reception desk Sfax:
+216 54 006 964
» Registration Hotline:
+218 911633466 (Phone calls only)
+218 910021631 (WhatsApp messages only)
» Protection Hotline:
+218 917127644
» Tawasul Common Feedback Mechanism Hotline: 1404
» Services provided through UNICEF Baity centres in Tripoli, Benghazi, Ajdabiya, Al Kufra, Sabha, Brak, Ubari, Ghat, Misrata.
» Tunis helpline: +216 80101566
» Sfax helpline: +216 80105561
» IOMTunis@iom.int
» referrals@iom.int
» Registration: +20 1033398239
» Helpline: +20 01032046064
» youstinanabil@caritasalex.org
» 002 01103358875
• Case management according to mandates;
• Refer migrant children to child protection institutions and actors Facilitate cross‑border coordination;
• Facilitate access to child protection judicial procedures for migrant children.
• Case management for children victims of trafficking
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Alternative care
• Leisure activities
• Humanitarian assistance
• Sensitization activities
• Case management
• Family tracing
• Direct assistance
• Case management
• Health care
• Education
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Alternative care/ Foster families
• Case management
• Health care
• Education
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Alternative care/ Foster families
• Case management
• Health care
• Education
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Alternative care/ Foster families
• Case management
• Health care
• Mental health and Psychosocial support
• Referral for legal assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Humanitarian assistance
• Referral to services
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Family tracing
• Alternative care
• Leisure activities
• Humanitarian assistance
• Sensitization activities
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Alternative care
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Alternative care
• Leisure activities
• Humanitarian assistance
• Family reunification
• Sensitization activities
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Housing/Alternative care
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Housing/Alternative care
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Housing/Alternative care
• Leisure activities
• Humanitarian assistance
• Famliy reunification
• Sensitization activities
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Education
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Housing/Alternative care
• Leisure activities
• Humanitarian assistance
• Famliy reunification
• Sensitization activities
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Socioeconomic assistance
• Direct assistance
• Voluntary return
• Case management
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Asylum
• Case management
• Legal assistance
• Housing/Alternative care
• Case management
• Referrals
• Psychosocial support
• Awareness-raising (including GBV risk mitigation)
• Parenting programmes
• Accelerated education
• Lifeskills
• Legal support including enrollment in schools
• Case management
• Tracing
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Direct assistance
• Child helpline
• Case management
• Psychosocial support
• Health care
• Child protection
• CP sector coordination
• Capacity-building
• Assistance
• Case management
• Psychosocial support
• Birth registration
• Child protection
• Health care
• Nutrition and livelihoods
• Education
• WASH
• Coordinate with local actors involved in child protection case management;
• Support access to child protection judicial procedures for migrant children;
• Facilitate cross‑border coordination.
• Delivery of birth certificates for any civil status event occurring in the Niger
• Development of a National Action plan
• Coordination between authorities, NGOs and international organizations
• Support for victims via NGOs’ projects
• Creation of a database on human trafficking
• Development of training and awareness programmes
• Involvment of the Commission in the development of legislative texts
• Direct assistance
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Asylum
• Ensure coordination of child protection institutions and agencies at the North African level;
• Advocate for and support States in the adoption of child protection policies and frameworks for migrant children at the regional and national levels;
• Strengthen cross‑border coordination between States within the region.
• Ensure coordination of national and local child protection institutions and agencies;
• Elaborate and adapt child protection policies and frameworks for migrant children;
• Enhance cross‑border coordination among State actors and between State and non‑State actors.
• Ensure the dissemination, training and implementation of operational frameworks and tools for child protection;
• Identify and refer migrant children to child protection institutions and services;
• Coordinate with child protection and welfare institutions;
• Coordinate with national and international actors during case management and best interests proceedings;
• Support access to child protection justice for migrant children.
• Follow up on cases and referral to services and national and international actors;
• Decide and oversees the implementation of child protection measures (e.g. appointment of legal guardians, family tracing and reunification).
• Health care
• Psychosocial support
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Asylum
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Asylum
• Legal assistance
• Tracing
• Asylum
• Migrant children’s identification;
• Case management;
• Support cross‑border coordination;
• Refer cases to specialized services;
• Refer cases to international actors according to their mandates;
• Contribute to ensure access to child protection judicial procedures for migrant children.
• Psychological support through family clubs established in primary health-care units
• Case management
• Cash assistance
• MHPSS
• Positive parenting
• Referrals
• Psychosocial assistance
• Direct assistance (gender‑based violence; child protection; cash assistance)
• Appointments for visiting the community day centre
Repository
Case management guidance and tools
• Global Protection Cluster GBV Prevention and Response and IASC. GBV Pocket Guide
Training
AMSME (With UNICEF support)
Abuse: A deliberate act with actual or potential negative effects upon a child’s safety, well‑being, dignity, and development. It is an act that takes place in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust, or power.
Gender: The socially constructed roles, behaviours, activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for individuals based on the sex they were assigned at birth.
Gender Based Violence (GBV): any harmful act that is perpetrated against a person’s will and that is based on socially ascribed (i.e. gender) differences between males and females. It includes acts that inflict physical, sexual or mental harm or suffering, threats of such acts, coercion, and other deprivations of liberty. These acts can occur in public or in private.
Intersectionality: a concept and theoretical framework that facilitate recognition of the complex ways in which social identities overlap and, in negative scenarios, can create compounding experiences of discrimination and concurrent forms of oppression based on two or more grounds.
Mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS): any type of local or outside support that aims to protect or promote psychosocial well‑being and/or prevent or treat mental health conditions.
Mental health: Mental health is a state of mental well‑being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well‑being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in. Mental health is a basic human right. And it is crucial to personal, community and socio‑economic development.
Neglect: The intentional or unintentional failure of a caregiver – individual, community, or institution (including the State) with clear responsibility by custom or law for the well‑being of the child to (a) protect a child from actual or potential harm to the child’s safety, well‑being, dignity and development or (b) fulfil that child’s rights to survival, development, and well‑being, when they have the capacity, ability, and resources to do so.
Persons with disability: those who have long‑term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.
Risk: For child protection, risk refers to the likelihood that violations of and threats to children’s rights will manifest and cause harm to children.
Violence against children: All acts that involve the intentional use of power or verbal or physical force, threatened or actual, against a child or against a group of children that either results in or has a high likelihood of resulting in actual or potential harm to the child or children’s safety, well‑being, dignity, and development.
Vulnerability: For child protection, vulnerability refers to individual, family, community and societal characteristics that reduce children’s ability to withstand adverse impact from violations of and threats to their rights.
Association AL KARAM Marrakech
Association ASTICUDE Nador
Association BAITY Casablanca
Association FONDATION ORIENT OCCIDENT Rabat
Association Nigérienne pour le Traitement de la Délinquance et la prévention du crime
Association TADAMON Tanger
Association Voix de Femmes Marocaines Agadir
Asylum-seeker: A general term for any person who is seeking international protection. In some countries, it is used as a legal term referring to a person who has applied for refugee status or a complementary international protection status and has not yet received a final decision on their claim. It can also refer to a person who has not yet submitted an application but may intend to do so, or may be in need of international protection.
Child trafficking: The recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of a child for the purpose of exploitation shall be considered “trafficking in persons” even if this does not involve any of the means.
Child: A child means every human being below the age of eighteen years unless under the law applicable to the child, majority is attained earlier.
Children left behind: Children raised in their home countries or in their countries of habitual residence, who have been left behind by adult migrants responsible for them.
Children on the move: Child migrants; children in need of international protection, such as refugees and asylum‑seekers; internally displaced children; children indirectly affected by migration and displacement, such as children who stay behind while parents or caregivers migrate; stateless children [in the context of migration and displacement] and child victims of cross‑border trafficking.
Children who are currently on the move: Children moving for a variety of reasons, voluntarily or involuntarily, within or between countries, with or without their parents or other primary caregivers, and whose movement may open up opportunities, but might also place them at risk (or at an increased risk) of economic or sexual exploitation, abuse, neglect and violence. This definition includes also internal migration, human trafficking and forced displacement.
Children who might potentially move: [children] living in environments with high migration prevalence and/or that could lead to migration because of child protection issues and/ or economic, social, cultural, political reasons, etc.
Children temporarily or permanently out of a migration process: [children] integrated in destination/transit countries, refugees in host countries, reintegrated in a third country or returned to the country of origin.
Human Trafficking/ Trafficking in Persons: Shall mean the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means of the threat or use of force or other forms of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of deception, of the abuse of power or of a position of vulnerability or of the giving or receiving of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over another person, for the purpose of exploitation.
Internally displaced person (IDP): A person who has been forced or obliged to flee from their home or place of habitual residence, in particular as a result of or in order to avoid the effects of armed conflicts, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights or natural or human‑made disasters, and who has not crossed an internationally recognized State border.
Irregular migration: Movement of persons that takes place outside the laws, regulations, or international agreements governing the entry into or exit from the State of origin, transit or destination.
Minor: The term is often used in national legislations, but its meaning varies greatly among States and can sometimes have a negative connotation. The term of “child/children” is thus to be favoured when referring to persons under the age of 18, as most notably done in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Mixed migration/ Mixed movement: The cross‑border movement of people, generally in an irregular manner, involving individuals and groups who travel alongside each other, using similar routes and means of transport or facilitators, but for different reasons. People travelling as part of mixed movements have different needs and profiles and may include asylum‑seekers, refugees, victims of trafficking, unaccompanied or separated children, stateless persons, and migrants (including migrants in irregular situations or migrants in vulnerable situations).
Non-refoulement: A core principle of international human rights and refugee law that prohibits States from returning individuals in any manner whatsoever (whether directly or indirectly) to territories where they may be at risk of persecution, torture, or other forms of serious or irreparable harm.
Refugee: Persons outside their countries of origin who are in need of international protection because of feared persecution, or a serious threat to their life, physical integrity or freedom in their country of origin as a result of persecution, armed conflict, violence or serious public disorder. Sometimes—notably in statistical contexts—the word refugee is used to designate individuals or groups who have been formally recognized by States or UNHCR as entitled to refugee status following an asylum or other status‑determination procedure.
Regular migrant/migrant in a regular situation: A person who moves or has moved across an international border and is authorized to enter or to stay in a State pursuant to the law of that State and to international agreements to which that State is a party.
Separated children: Children, as defined in Article 1 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, who have been separated from both parents, or from their previous legal or customary primary caregiver, but not necessarily from other relatives. These may, therefore, include children accompanied by other adult family members.
Smuggling of migrants: shall mean the procurement, in order to obtain, directly or indirectly, a financial or other material benefit, of the illegal entry of a person into a State Party of which the person is not a national or a permanent resident.
Unaccompanied migrant children: In the context of migration, children separated from both parents or other caregivers are generally referred to as unaccompanied migrant children (UMC). In the literature, the expression ”unaccompanied and separated children“ in the context of migration are also referred to by the acronym UASC.
Youth: The age range for youth of 15 to 24 years has been endorsed by the United Nations for statistical purposes, and is widely understood to encompass “adolescents” (aged 15‑19 years) and “young adults” (aged 20‑24 years).
Potential or presumed victim of trafficking: Persons may also be termed as “potential” or “presumed” victims of trafficking. Potential victims are people who have not yet been trafficked, but due to their vulnerability or other circumstances, are at risk of being trafficked. A presumed victim is a person whose circumstances indicate that they may have been trafficked, but no final determination has yet been made, perhaps pending further inquiries. In the interim they should be treated as a victim and immediately provided with protection and assistance.
Victim of trafficking: The Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children does not define the term “victim of trafficking”. However, article 4 of the Council of Europe Convention on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings defines a victim of trafficking as any natural person who is subject to trafficking in human beings.
Best Interests Assessment: The BIA is a child protection assessment, that involves interviews with the child, the parent and/or legal/customary caregiver, and usually a home visit where possible. The BIA can be conducted in different forms according to the complexity of child’s situation.
Best interests of the child: In all actions concerning children, whether undertaken by public or private social welfare institutions, courts of law, administrative authorities or legislative bodies, the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration. States Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well‑being, taking into account the rights and duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals legally responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate legislative and administrative measures.
Best Interests Determination: A formal process, which has strict procedural safeguards designed to determine the child’s best interests when taking particularly important decisions affecting the child. It should facilitate adequate child participation without discrimination, involve decision‑makers with relevant areas of expertise and balance all relevant factors in order to assess and determine the best option.
Best Interests Procedure: includes the key steps of child protection case management as well as the UNHCR Best Interests Determination (BID) process and is implemented for individual children at risk who are in need of targeted, structured, systematic, sustained and coordinated support. It ensures that decisions and actions aimed at addressing protection risks and needs for children are in their best interests.
Child protection case management: Child protection case management (also referred to hereafter as case management) is an approach to addressing the needs of an individual child who is at risk of harm or has been harmed. It is an essential part of child protection programming, which involves preventing and responding to abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence against children.
Child protection system: Certain formal and informal structures, functions and capacities that have been assembled to prevent and respond to violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of children. A child protection system is generally agreed to be comprised of the following components: human resources, finance, laws and policies, governance, monitoring and data collection as well as protection and response services and care management. It also includes different actors – children, families, communities, those working at sub‑national or national level and those working internationally. Most important are the relationships and interactions between and among these components and these actors within the system. It is the outcomes of these interactions that comprise the system.
Child protection in humanitarian action: The prevention of and response to abuse, neglect, exploitation and violence against children in humanitarian action.
Kafala: the commitment by an individual or family (kafil) to voluntarily take responsibility for the daily care, education, safety, and protection of a child (makful) deprived of family care, in the same way a parent would do for their biological child. Kafalah has origins in Islamic law (sharia, hereafter), as an alternative care option for orphans and abandoned children.
Best interests of the child: In all actions concerning children, the best interests of the child shall be a primary consideration. States Parties undertake to ensure the child such protection and care as is necessary for his or her well‑being, taking into account the rights and duties of his or her parents, legal guardians, or other individuals legally responsible for him or her, and, to this end, shall take all appropriate legislative and administrative measures.
Non-discrimination: States Parties shall respect and ensure the rights set forth in the [present] Convention to each child within their jurisdiction without discrimination of any kind, irrespective of the child’s or his or her parent’s or legal guardian’s race, colour, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status. States Parties shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that the child is protected against all forms of discrimination or punishment on the basis of the status, activities, expressed opinions, or beliefs of the child’s parents, legal guardians, or family members.
The right to be heard and to participate: States Parties shall assure to the child who is capable of forming his or her own views the right to express those views freely in all matters affecting the child, the views of the child being given due weight in accordance with the age and maturity of the child. For this purpose, the child shall in particular be provided the opportunity to be heard in any judicial and administrative proceedings affecting the child, either directly, or through a representative or an appropriate body, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of national law.
The right to family unit: States Parties shall ensure that a child shall not be separated from his or her parents against their will, except when competent authorities subject to judicial review determine, in accordance with applicable law and procedures, that such separation is necessary for the best interests of the child. Applications by a child or his or her parents to enter or leave a State Party for the purpose of family reunification shall be dealt with by States Parties in a positive, humane and expeditious manner.
The right to identity: The child shall be registered immediately after birth and shall have the right from birth to a name, the right to acquire a nationality and, as far as possible, the right to know and be cared for by his or her parents. States Parties shall ensure the implementation of these rights in particular where the child would otherwise be stateless. States Parties undertake to respect the right of the child to preserve his or her identity, including nationality, name and family relations as recognized by law without unlawful interference. Where a child is illegally deprived of some or all of the elements of his or her identity, States Parties shall provide appropriate assistance and protection, with a view to re‑establishing speedily his or her identity.
The right to life, survival and development: States Parties recognize that every child has the inherent right to life. States Parties shall ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child.
Do No Harm: Actions and interventions undertaken for or on behalf of children and their families during the case management process should not cause them harm. This principle also applies to activities that collect, store or share their information.
Child‑rights and child‑centred approach: Human rights and children’s rights as stated in the UNCRC, international and national legislation should be integrated into all stages of the case management process.166 Fundamental rights such as children’s right to be heard, to participate in decisions that affect them and to be free from discrimination should be integrated into all steps and case decisions. The child’s best interests should be prioritized as the key consideration in all actions and decisions affecting them.
Individualized approach: Children and their needs should be at the centre of all decisions and actions taken during the case management process. Case management should focus on the individual child and family, ensuring that the best interests of the child are assessed on a case‑by‑case basis.
The best interests of the child: The “best interests of the child” encompasses the child’s physical and emotional safety and should inform all actions and interactions with the child and family. This principle should be considered a priority and should guide all decisions and actions taken during the process to ensure the protection and safe development of the child.
Non‑discrimination: Children should not be treated poorly or denied access to services on the basis of their gender, age, socioeconomic background, race, religion, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or gender identity. The best interests of the child should be considered and assessed without prejudice to their personal characteristics. Organizations and practitioners should develop non‑discriminatory relationships with children based on respect.
Child participation: Children have the right to be informed and to participate in decisions that affect them, according to their age and maturity. In cases where the participation of the child cannot be granted or the decision to be made is not in accordance with the child’s wishes, the reasons should be explained and justified to the child.
Informed consent and assent: Depending on the age and maturity of the child, service providers and caseworkers should inform children and their families about available options and potential risks. Child‑friendly communication should be used to ensure that information is fully understood by small children. Informed consent can be given by children who have the legal capacity to understand the procedure and its consequences, while younger children (usually under 15 years) or children who are inherently incapable of giving informed consent may agree to give their assent.
Confidentiality: Sensitive and identifying information collected about children should be shared only on a need‑to‑know basis. Caseworkers and service providers should ensure that practices and systems are in place to protect the information collected and to avoid informal sharing of case and sensitive information.
Accountability: Accountability in child protection case management should address power imbalances between children and families, caseworkers and organizations. Systems and practices should ensure that caseworkers use their authority responsibly and are held accountable, and appropriate feedback channels should be established to allow children to provide feedback safely.
Entraide nationale (National Mutual Aid) Child support and protection centres
General Directorate of Civil Status, Migration and Refugees
IRC International Rescue Committee
Initiative et Développement
Médecins sans frontières (Doctors without Borders)
National Child Helpline provided by the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood
National Office for the Protection and Promotion of Childhood
National commission to combat human trafficking
Regional Directorate for Child Protection
Sante et Éducation pour le Développement Familial
Save the Children (the Niger)
St. Andrew’s Refugee Services StARS
According to the IASC Guidelines, Gender‑Based Violence (GBV) is an umbrella term for any harmful act that is perpetrated against a person’s will and that is based on socially ascribed (i.e. gender) differences between males and females. It includes acts that inflict physical, sexual or mental harm or suffering, threats of such acts, coercion and other deprivations of liberty.
In the context of safe referral, when the child identified is or could be a child survivor of GBV, specific pathways for the child’s referral may be required, especially in a context where the organization in charge of child protection also assists adult beneficiaries.
Specific entry points for the referral will differ based on the legal context of the country. Only child protection specialized staff should receive the report and follow up with the child. If other GBV referral pathways are already established, the child referral system should be aligned with the requirements and standards set by these specialized systems especially regarding interviews and contacts with child survivors of GBV to avoid duplications. Specific and confidential referral tools should be available for the confidential exchange of information.
According to the United Nations definition, “Persons with disabilities include those who have long‑term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others.” National authorities should ensure the full enjoyment of human rights and children’s rights by children with disabilities and the best interests of the child should be a primary consideration.
Disability can be one of the vulnerabilities of children and youth in mixed migration. Adequate protection and response to the needs of migrant children with disabilities should be ensured. For example, during the Best Interests Determination process, disability should be a special consideration when gathering supporting documentation, consulting with experts, and monitoring the implementation of interventions. For these children, the appointment of an individual guardian is key to ensuring the prevention of risks associated with their return to their countries of origin.
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Global Protection Cluster – Child Protection, 2024. Recognising and Referring Child Protection Concerns. Recognize and safely provide initial support to children experiencing or at risk of harm. Rapid Guide for all Humanitarian Workers.
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African regional instruments and bodies exist and are applicable to the case of migrant children moving to and through North Africa. The main institution involved in child protection at the regional level is the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), which is mandated to implement the 1990 African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
Despite the existence of child protection institutions, policies, and legislative frameworks at the national level, child protection systems in North Africa and West and Central Africa show need for improvement concerning children on the move, especially regarding identification, legal guardianship and cross‑border coordination.
Direct assistance is provided by child protection actors along North, West and Central Africa migration routes, including through temporary child protection facilities, usually run by national child protection authorities supported by international actors, as in the case of the Niger.
Best Interest Determination (BID) panels and mechanisms exist in most in North, West and Central African countries. Sustainable solutions for migrant children in the subregions are mostly represented by voluntary return and based on joint BID procedures. In some countries, such as Mauritania, foster care solutions are available and provided by the government in close coordination with international actors. IOM and UNICEF in West and Central Africa have developed joint case management guidelines for children on the move to promote common standards and procedures.
Main sources
• African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights of 1981
• African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child of 1990
• African Union. Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa of 2003
• African Union. Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa of 2009
• African Union. Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment of 2018
• Africa’s Agenda for Children 2040
• ECOWAS. Child Policy 2019–2030
• ECOWAS. Support Procedures and Standards for the Protection and Reintegration of Vulnerable Children on the Move and Young Migrants
• ECOWAS. Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons, Residence and Establishment
• Migration Policy Framework for Africa and Plan of Action (2018–2030)
• OAU. Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa of 1969
After immediate and urgent needs have been met, durable solutions specific to the migration context should be considered for each child. In particular, a durable solution is also a comprehensive, safe and sustainable solution when it prioritizes the long‑term well‑being of the child and ensures an environment conducive to the child’s development and rights under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The expression of sustainable solutions for children on the move is used to indicate all different options that can be taken once the BID has been done and terminated to ensure the child is oriented towards a long‑term solution. These options should ensure the child’s development following the rights provided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child and away from any form of harm. Examples of sustainable solutions include:
• voluntary return and reintegration;
• family reunification in the country of origin, in a host country or a third country;
• integration in a host community;
• resettlement in a third country.
The BID is the adequate tool necessary to identify a sustainable solution and ensure its implementation when the case is referred to unaccompanied and separated children or accompanied children who have been found to be at risk from their parents or legal or customary caregivers and for whom alternative care arrangements need to be identified.
In the BID decision, the panel should also identify the national or local authority that should monitor the implementation of the decision taken in the best interests of the child.
Alternative care solutions are applicable for all children without parental care or at risk of losing it, including when located in a different country than their usual residency like in the case of unaccompanied and separated migrant children.
During the BIA or BID procedure and the evaluation of the appropriate alternative care solution, family and community‑based options should be preferred.
Migrant children can find themselves in need of temporary care solutions in countries of transit or destination or upon voluntary return in their countries of origin in cases where reintegration in their family wasn’t in their best interests or wasn’t feasible. In such cases, foster families and family‑based alternative care arrangements, such as host families, should be the first choice.
In case of need of temporary care, child protection facilities can be considered as temporary measures. Child protection facilities should be state‑run or formally recognized and monitored by institutional actors. The establishment of specific centres for children on the move should be avoided. They should ensure a child friendly environment and the permanence of the child should not exceed 2 months. Childcare facilities should also effectively facilitate referrals and provide access to child protection services for all accommodated children.
When placing an unaccompanied or separated child in a temporary child care facility during the delays of family tracing assessment of the best interests process, the legal responsibility should be given to a trusted person or entity to ensure decisions on the case are authorized and shared with the child. National authorities should ensure that a mechanism is in place to allow the appointment of a person or an entity as legal guardian.
While the child is in temporary alternative care, the caseworker should start or continue the family tracing assessment. In case the family is untraceable despite all efforts and/or family reunification is not a viable option in the best interests of the child, a permanent alternative care solution as foster care should be adopted.
Supervision mechanisms and support for foster families should be put in place to ensure the well‑being of the child. Additional visits and activities should take place in case concerns are raised.
As recognized by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, families, households and legal guardians play a pivotal role in the growth and development of children, regardless of their status. The right to a family and family unity is recognized by art. 9, art. 10 and art. 22.
• Family tracing and assessment should be done by local social services in the child’s country of origin. In cases where this is not feasible, other child protection organizations and actors and UN agencies at the national and subnational levels may be involved in these activities. They assist in family tracing and reunification in cooperation with national authorities.
• The family tracing assessment is part of the BID procedure and based on the findings of the BIA and can be initiated upon the child’s request.
• Once the family is identified and located, the caseworker should verify the information and conduct an evaluation on family and household relationships, living conditions, access to proper care as well as economic and emotional support. During the evaluation the caseworker should also assess challenges and opportunities related to the reintegration of the child within the family if the reunification will occur in a different country. In this case, the migration status of the family and the stability in the host country should be assessed.
• For unaccompanied children, family tracing and reunification must be in the child’s best interests. This evaluation should also be made in case of voluntary return, which must be excluded if it is contrary to the best interests of the child.
• If, following the relationship verification and the social assessment, family reunification is determined or suspected of posing a risk to the child, the BID panel must carefully evaluate if family reunification is in the best interests of the child. Any doubt or reluctance shown by the child, or the family should be assessed and evaluated.
• If the BIA identifies a possible risk associated with family tracing, it should not be pursued. If there is a need for international protection, the case should be referred to UNHCR or competent actors.
• When family tracing is completed, the caseworker should integrate conclusions and recommendations in the case and/or the BID file.
As stated by the UNCRC every child has the right to a name, a nationality as well the preservation of their identity. Identification qualifies children including children on the move as rights‑holders, as members of families or communities and protects their right to be known and cared for.
Birth registration for all children is a prerequisite of identity, and certification of birth is an essential administrative step for releasing identity documents and accessing social services and benefits. As birth registration is fundamental to children on the move’s access to protection measures, all States should remove all obstacles to registering birth and issuing birth certificates for all children, regardless of their or their parents’ migration status.
The lack of access to birth registration in countries of transit and destination puts children on the move at high risk of statelessness and subsequent exclusion from necessary care and services. A condition that should be avoided by States by providing appropriate measures, including by recognizing nationality to children born on their territory.
In North African and neighbouring countries such as the Niger and Mauritania birth registration and the verification of parent‑child relationship remain a major challenge for protection of migrant children. Practical solutions to improve birth registration are making procedures more flexible, by accepting alternative forms of identification and simplifying administrative procedures and encouraging community‑based approach by involving local leaders. International cooperation could harmonize procedures. Advocacy for legal reforms is crucial to guarantee the rights of migrant children and ensure their legal protection.
Case closure represents the final phase of the case management procedure, and it normally happens once the recommendations have been implemented and the child protection issue related to the case has been resolved. Otherwise, it can also be motivated by some specific events that may happen, for instance:
• The family or the child do not wish to continue benefitting from support and there are no reasons for actors in charge of the child’s protection to oppose the choice;
• The child’s location is unknown despite efforts to find them;
• The death of the child;
• The child has turned 18 and the case should be transferred to competent authorities.
• Before case closure, the caseworker should prepare the beneficiary sharing all useful information and coordinating with other service providers to ensure continuity of care when needed. The case manager should discuss the case closure and its details with the case supervisor who should give approval before informing the child and their caregivers. Children and caregivers should be involved in the decision‑making process for case closure.
• The case should not be closed right after the implementation of the case plan, but after a transition period during which follow up visits and review meetings should be carried out. Follow up activities should be conducted within 3 months after the closure to monitor the child’s safety and well‑being.
• Once the case is closed, all documentation related to it should be safely stored for a period of time according to the applicable confidentiality and information‑sharing standards as well as data protection protocols and national legislation.
• Information about the case closure should be notified to responsible agencies and other stakeholders involved in the best interests procedure to facilitate coordination of case management, protection and assistance services.
• For children approaching the age of majority, specific solutions in their best interest should be sought in some cases, as their eligibility for protection may change. If the case manager considers that the child is still at risk at the age of 18/majority, the need for short‑term or long‑term assistance should be assessed. If short‑term assistance is needed, the case manager should continue to work on the case until the risks have been addressed. If long‑term help is needed, the case manager should identify other service providers who can help the child after the age of majority.
Case implementation and follow-up are key to help stakeholders determine the adequacy of decisions and recommendations mentioned in the BID, and to assess whether adjustments to the case plan are necessary.
• Based on the recommendations and actions outlined in the case plan, the caseworker should assess whether the services needed for the child can be provided in‑house or if a referral is required to ensure the child’s access to adequate services. The following are examples of services that may be offered to children on the move in a sustainable case plan:
- Psychosocial support
- Temporary and/or alternative care (shelter, health, food, clothing, education, etc.)
- Family tracing/reunification
- Reintegration
- Legal assistance
- Family and/or community mediation
- Family support
- Support for survivors of gender-based violence.
• The case follow up should be carried out by stakeholders designated by each agency or organization. It should begin after the initial case registration and continue until the case is closed.
• When a referral to different organizations or actors is needed, updated services mapping and safe referral pathways should clearly identify the roles and responsibilities of each organization involved in the process.
• Referral should be done only after obtaining the child’s and family’s permission and when the organization cannot provide the needed services.
• Follow up and review meetings should be periodically held involving the case manager, experts or supervisors if needed as well as the child and the family when appropriate. Review meetings should take place at least every 3 months.
• Monitoring of the case implementation should be planned and carried out in meaningful moments to measure progress towards objectives. The activity plan implementation should be evaluated, ensuring that the child’s needs are in line with the plan. The number and frequency of assessments depend on the level of risk to which the child is exposed to and it should decrease as the child’s situation improves.
Case management interviews should be conducted only by child protection experts and qualified staff, following rights‑based and child‑friendly approaches.
In contexts where migrant children might be in a condition of distress or trauma because of the migration journey or due to abuse and violence it is key to ensure their protection and to avoid re‑traumatization in the course of case management.
The following good practices have been identified to carry out child‑centred interviews and interactions while respecting the child’s rights:
In general:
• Use calm, relaxed and open body language;
• Use appropriate facial expressions;
• Sit or be at the child’s level and face the child;
• Summarize and give the child an overview of what they said in order to check that information are understood correctly;
• Use closed‑ended questions to make it easier for younger children to understand the questions;
• Use open‑ended questions to give space to the child to express themselves;
• Use leading questions to help a shy or hesitant child to open up;
• Understand cultural perspectives on communicating with children to adapt the style of communication.
And
• Give children time to express themselves;
• Be transparent with the child and inform the child about the procedure and possible outcomes;
• Do not minimize what the child is saying;
• Be empathetic and patient;
• Give the child alternatives to direct interviews such as drawing or playing to share information and express feelings;
• Be mindful about physical touch.
Child protection case management is an approach of organizing actions aimed at meeting the needs of a child at risk or victim of harm. The process ensures individualized, coordinated, holistic, and multi‑sectoral support to address complex and interconnected child protection issues. In this context, a social worker supports the child and family in a systematic and timely manner, offering direct assistance and safe referral. The child protection case management can be an integral part of protection programmes and includes preventing and responding to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence.
Child safeguarding, including SEA, ensures that all children who come into contact with operators of organizations providing assistance are protected from direct or indirect harm as a result of any action taken by any staff or non‑staff member in the context of project implementation, or as a result of any organizational policy or practice. Complaints and feedback mechanisms should be established and potential violations should be reported through appropriate channels. A zero‑tolerance approach to child exploitation, abuse, violence and other forms of harm should be ensured in all programmes and actions.
Organizations and facilities should sensitize and develop adequate codes of conduct, procedures and safeguarding policies informed by the following six PSEA core principles developed by the Inter‑Agency Standing Committee (IASC) in 2019:
1. Sexual exploitation and abuse by humanitarian workers constitute acts of gross misconduct and are therefore grounds for termination of employment.
2. Sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18) is prohibited regardless of the age of majority or age of consent locally. Mistaken belief regarding the age of a child is not a defence.
3. Exchange of money, employment, goods, or services for sex, including sexual favours or other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour is prohibited. This includes exchange of assistance that is due to beneficiaries.
4. Any sexual relationship between those providing humanitarian assistance and protection and a person benefitting from such humanitarian assistance and protection that involves improper use of rank or position is prohibited. Such relationships undermine the credibility and integrity of humanitarian aid work.
5. Where a humanitarian worker develops concerns or suspicions regarding sexual abuse or exploitation by a fellow worker, whether in the same agency or not, he or she must report such concerns via established agency reporting mechanisms.
6. Humanitarian workers are obliged to create and maintain an environment which prevents sexual exploitation and abuse and promotes the implementation of their code of conduct. Managers at all levels have particular responsibilities to support and develop systems which maintain this environment.
Child trafficking is the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of a child for the purpose of exploitation, and it is a crime that can be perpetrated nationally or internationally following a border crossing.
Children and youth who migrate often flee from political, climate, and economic crises and lack of access to services and development opportunities. In this context, a lack of regular pathways for migration may push children to turn to informal passeurs or even criminal organizations to cross borders for better opportunities or reunification with family living abroad. As a result, early identification of trafficked children is essential to ensure their protection.
Victims of trafficking are often subjected to practices like violence, the confiscation of documentation and passports and income limitation. On children this context of severe abuse has a strong impact on their psychophysical health, which can cause developmental delay and regression.
Children may face serious consequences for legal transgressions. In this regard, the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime Supplementary Protocols and recommendations advocate for not prosecuting trafficked persons for unlawful acts committed as a direct result of being trafficked or if they were forced to commit crimes in that situation.
International child protection frameworks call upon States that are party to the UNCRC to adopt specific actions to address child trafficking, granting regular stay and assistance regardless of the migrant child’s cooperation in criminal proceedings against traffickers.
Several countries in North Africa and neighbouring countries have adopted national laws and a regulatory framework that include national referral mechanisms for victims of trafficking following the 4Ps framework established by the United Nations Global Plan of Action to Combat Trafficking in Persons. However, additional efforts are needed to identify child victims of trafficking, to ensure safe shelter and housing, and to find appropriate and sustainable solutions for their cases.
Children are among the most vulnerable populations on the move. Therefore, all decisions concerning their well‑being and development must be taken in their best interest.
Durable solutions in the context of child migration are usually defined as long‑term options that respond to the standards and rights set out in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. As part of the child protection response, they entail full protection by States and should provide a safe environment where the wellbeing and development of the child can be ensured.
According to the principle of family unity, family reunification should be the first long‑term solution to explore in the case of unaccompanied and separated migrant children, when in their best interest. In the case of unaccompanied and separated children, durable solutions should be decided on a case‑by‑case basis through a best interest determination, given their potential long‑term impact. Where this is not possible, alternative care solutions should be sought.
If desired by the child and in his or her best interests, a voluntary, free and informed decision to return and be reintegrated in the context of origin may be a viable option. For unaccompanied and separated children, family tracing and the appointment of a legal guardian prior to return and to support the reintegration process must be ensured. Return must always be in the best interests of the child, otherwise it should not be undertaken.
Resettlement may also be a long‑term option to ensure the protection of children on the move. UNHCR is the UN agency mandated to carry out resettlement and to whom IOM refers cases of children on the move who are eligible for refugee status and, where appropriate, resettlement.
Local integration of children on the move may be combined with resettlement. Local integration in its legal, sociocultural, economic and civil‑political dimensions can contribute to ensuring sustainable child protection. National social systems and policies should facilitate access to health care, education and employment and ensure that specific needs are met.
In North Africa and neighbouring countries, child protection systems and actors are following the principles and recommendations of the UNCRC to develop and implement sustainable solutions such as voluntary return and reintegration. However, some challenges have been identified on the ground, particularly the combination of a lack of formal inter‑State procedures for family assessment. Increasing pressure on asylum systems in a region facing mixed movements is also challenging national systems.
Children on the move are characterized by a high degree of mobility. It is possible that during the delays of a BIA or BID, migrant children continue their journey and cross borders, leaving the organizations responsible for their protection unable to follow up the case. To enhance cross‑border coordination on BIA and BID, organizations should:
• Map and regularly update national child protection authorities, UN agencies, international actors (including faith‑based organizations), CSOs and service providers active on child protection and identification of children on the move and exchange information among the concerned countries.
• Collaborate with UN agencies and international actors with case management database to facilitate case tracking.
• Foster harmonization of national standard operating procedures (SOPs), case management tools and monitoring matrices in the countries concerned.
• Facilitate the creation of a network of child protection focal points and dedicated communication channels.
• Collaborate with national and migrant associations involved in national and regional child protection networks.
• When in the best interests of the child, engage families, caregivers and legal guardians in case tracking and follow up on cases.
• Once a child has been identified, share case files according to confidentiality and data collection and management policies to facilitate case transfer and follow up.
• Transfer the case to a child protection caseworker in the country where the child was located to review and update the BIA report or gather information to update the BID report.
• Ensure case management according to harmonized SOPs in the new country and refer the child for continuum of care.
Children on the move in North Africa may face harsh living conditions, and unaccompanied and separated children are at an even greater risk of exploitation, trafficking, abuse, and gender based violence. The lack of safe pathways and border control policies can further exacerbate the perils of the journey of children.
According to the Committee on the Rights of the Child, children in international migration must be primarily treated as children regardless of their or their parents’ or legal guardians’ migration status. As stated by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, States, as duty‑bearers, have the responsibility to ensure the right of all children to live, survive and develop, including physically, mentally, morally, spiritually and socially.
States are responsible for ensuring the protection of children on the move by applying the principles of non-refoulement and the best interests of the child. Their best interests should always be a primary consideration in any decision affecting them, and every child deserves to be treated equally without discrimination. This is also reflected in ending child detention and by promoting alternative solutions to detention in non‑custodial settings.
As per Article 3 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the responsibility for the protection of a child falls firstly on the families and legal guardians. When caregivers are unavailable, the duty of protection should fall to the national authorities of the country in which the child is located following a case‑by‑case assessment and determination of the best interest of children, including for children involved in international migration.
In some North African and neighboring countries, BIA and BID mechanisms and procedures exist that also include children on the move and in several targeted countries, UN agencies play a key role in BID panels for migrant children. While BIA and BID are relatively common and established practices in North Africa, clear and coordinated mechanism for the appointment of qualified legal guardians for unaccompanied and separated migrant children remains a major challenge.
Egypt is a country of origin, transit and in some cases destination for children on the move. These children are often unaccompanied and separated hailing from Eritrea, Ethiopia, the Sudan, Yemen and other Middle Eastern and Central Asian countries. Generally, child migrants arrive to Egypt in order to reach Europe through Libya. However, in many cases Libya is their final destination to find better job opportunities.
Smuggling and trafficking of migrant boys and girls is common. Sudanese gangs have been known to run child trafficking networks by recruiting unaccompanied and separated boys from the Sudan.
Migrant girls experience a high rate of gender‑based violence especially along borders. These violations include cases of feminine genital mutilation and child marriage represents a push factor for many migrant girls that cross into Egypt.
IOM data collected in the context of the assisted voluntary return and reintegration (AVRR) programme in Algeria indicates that since 2023 the number of migrant boys from countries such as Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, the Gambia, Guinea and Senegal, requesting voluntary return has increased. For these boys, Algeria is a transit country to earn money to continue their journey or to hide while attending further instructions from smugglers and traffickers to cross to Europe. These children migrate to escape poverty and improve their lives and the lives of their families.
Children left behind are also present in the country. These little children and adolescents often become unaccompanied or separated due to the death of their parents and they are identified by stable migrant communities across country and diplomatic representatives.
Child trafficking is also a reality in Algeria. A large share of small migrant children and adolescents hails from Benin and the Niger. In these countries, traditional practices can lead parents to entrust their children to community representatives, who facilitate their migration to Algeria. In some cases, this has resulted in trafficking for the purpose of begging. Young Nigerian girls and young men, are increasingly being trafficked by Nigerian women to be exploited in prostitution in the country.
Identifying unaccompanied and separated children can be challenging especially when the identification happens at borders or in a transit country. These children are characterized by high mobility and in some contexts, they can be concerned about being identified or referred to authorities. Therefore, they may fail to identify themselves as children or may provide false information.
Younger separated and unaccompanied children often cannot correctly identify themselves and may not be able to share information about their origins, a behaviour that can be exacerbated by traumatic experiences.
To ensure timely identification, caseworkers should rapidly refer the case to national child protection authorities and assess if the child possesses adequate documentation to prove their identity, the identity of, and relationship to, accompanying adults to establish legal guardianship over the child. Birth registration and certification is also a challenge in identifying unaccompanied and separated children who have never had their birth certified in countries of origin or transit during their migration journey.
In this regard, States have a key role to play in removing barriers to birth registration and the issuance of birth certificates for all children, regardless of their or their parents' migration status. State actors and stakeholders, such as relevant UN agencies like UNICEF and IOM, can coordinate interventions where necessary to ensure birth certification and identification of children on the move.
Identifying unaccompanied and separated children can be challenging especially when the identification happens at borders or in a transit country. These children are characterized by high mobility and in some contexts, they can be concerned about being identified or referred to authorities. Therefore, they may fail to identify themselves as children or may provide false information.
Younger separated and unaccompanied children often cannot correctly identify themselves and may not be able to share information about their origins, a behaviour that can be exacerbated by traumatic experiences.
To ensure timely identification, caseworkers should rapidly refer the case to national child protection authorities and assess if the child possesses adequate documentation to prove their identity, the identity of, and relationship to, accompanying adults to establish legal guardianship over the child. Birth registration and certification is also a challenge in identifying unaccompanied and separated children who have never had their birth certified in countries of origin or transit during their migration journey.
In this regard, States have a key role to play in removing barriers to birth registration and the issuance of birth certificates for all children, regardless of their or their parents' migration status. State actors and stakeholders, such as relevant UN agencies like UNICEF and IOM, can coordinate interventions where necessary to ensure birth certification and identification of children on the move.
International migration and border crossings can expose migrant children to the risk of human rights violations, violence and exploitation, especially when they are unaccompanied or separated. Cross‑border coordination is key to the effective protection of children on the move.
States have a responsibility to grant children on the move access to all services necessary to their life, survival and development such as shelters, or medical assistance at the time of their identification, regardless of whether the context in which they are identified is temporary and transitory or permanent. Effective cross‑border coordination between States and actors can have a significant impact on the quality and effectiveness of BIP and the ability to find long‑term sustainable solutions.
In North Africa, child protection actors face significant challenges in coordinating to verify the identity of undocumented and unaccompanied migrant children and therefore ensuring their access to services. Globally, children on the move face discriminatory and challenging contexts due to stakeholders’ limited knowledge and application of international standards, but also to lack of harmonization of national migration management and child protection norms. These discrepancies between countries and the employ of procedures not adapted to the needs of children, can lead to serious children’s rights violations.
Cross‑border coordination to protect children on the move should be implemented through the creation of bi‑, multilateral, regional and international initiatives aimed at reinforcing cooperation. These can include the establishment of a harmonized case management and referral system in line with the UNCRC that facilitates family reunification and ensures the determination of children’s best interests, ensuring their access to justice.
Libya is a country of origin, transit and destination for national and foreign migrant children. Foreign children on the move come mainly from Chad, Egypt, the Niger, Nigeria and the Sudan. While Libya is mainly a destination country, a small number of children transit through Libya to reach Europe. This can leave children vulnerable to key child protection risks including trafficking and smuggling.
Taking advantage of the country’s instability, large networks of smugglers and traffickers operate in Libya, and human trafficking, including of migrant children, is common. Migrant children, even with the knowledge of their parents, follow traffickers, usually from the same tribe, to help them cross borders and find work. Along the way, children can also be sold from one smuggler to another and end up being exploited in forced labour or sexual exploitation.
Migrant girls are highly vulnerable to gender‑based violence, including sexual exploitation, with sexual violence often resulting in unwanted pregnancies.
Migrant children are vulnerable, and this vulnerability can arise both from their status as children, and therefore their lack of legal capacity and their social and economic vulnerability, and from the conditions in which they migrate. For example, unaccompanied and separated children may be considered particularly vulnerable due to their separation from their parents or legal guardians, but also more generally children fleeing persecution, exploitation or poverty, as well as children involved in trafficking or smuggling. Responses should take into account all the different factors involved in their migration, always taking into account their agency and allowing them to be heard.
The following protection risks may concern children on the move:
• Physical and sexual abuse or violence
• Emotional abuse and psychosocial distress
• Neglect
• Exploitation
• Unaccompanied status and separated children with vulnerable caregivers
• Child‑headed households
• Early and forced marriages and pregnancies
• Disability
These risks may vary significantly among children based on factors such as their age, abilities or disabilities, sex, gender, race, cultural background, sexual orientation, gender identity and other personal characteristics.
In the context of child protection case management, to ensure tailored responses, risks are usually classified according to gravity and likelihood:
High risk
• High likelihood of harm
• The child needs an urgent intervention (in 24 hours)
• Follow up should be twice a week
Medium risk
• The child is exposed to risk of harm
• An immediate child protection intervention is recommended in maximum 3 days
• Follow up should be once a week
Low risk
• Low likelihood of harm, but concerns exist
• A programmed child protection intervention is recommended in 1 week
• Follow up should be every 2 weeks
Migrant children residing or transiting in Mauritania are mainly West African children and they can be accompanied, unaccompanied, or separated. They come to Mauritania for several reasons, including to transit for migration to Europe or seek employment in Mauritania to potentially continue their journey later.
A large number of them are separated migrant children who are accompanied by a family member or who want to join a relative already living in Mauritania. In some cases, accompanying family members exploit children in exchange for “helping” them cross the border, which can lead to situations of child smuggling or trafficking.
Mauritania is renowned in Western Africa for the quality of the Koranic schools. Migrant children from neighbouring countries such as the Gambia, Senegal and Sierra Leone come to Mauritania to be enrolled in Koranic education programmes. Trafficking and smuggling networks often take advantage of this reason to lure families and migrant children into exploitation.
Young Malian girls are highly vulnerable to human trafficking for forced domestic labour. These young girls are recruited and then forced to work as maids without pay. These girls are often victims of gender‑based violence.
Migration and displacement can be linked to violent or sudden events, which can trigger reactions and responses such as stress and trauma. Challenges such as discrimination, insecurity and uncertainty are sources of deep frustration and anxiety for children on the move. Asking for and depending on outside help can frustrate migrant youth’s self‑esteem and sense of dignity. Early identification and adequate response can help migrant children improving their mental health.
The WHO defines mental health as “a state of mental well‑being that enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realize their abilities, learn well and work well, and contribute to their community.” This definition highlights the importance of a multidimensional response.
Techniques such as Psychological First Aid can be extremely useful in improving the mental health of vulnerable migrants and children in emergency contexts. It is not a professional psychological or psychiatric intervention and therefore can be performed by caseworkers adequately trained on Psychological First Aid. Psychological First Aid provides active listening and comfort to vulnerable individuals in order to understand and effectively address their needs.
In the context of child migration, the following steps should be followed:
• Provide the child with a child‑friendly space as well as with a sense of calm and security through tone of voice, facial expressions, and movement;
• Address the child’s basic and immediate physical needs, such as hunger, thirst, need for toileting, etc., and provide access to a comfortable place or object. If a caregiver or trusted adult is present, they can be asked to help calm the child;
• Build trust and understand the child’s current and immediate concerns;
• Ask for help and refer the child to appropriate support services. Follow up with services about the case as appropriate.
Morocco is a country of origin, transit, and destination for children on the move, including unaccompanied and separated children. Most of the migrant children transit through Morocco to reach Europe, primarily Spain. Migrant youth and children arriving or passing through Morocco are mainly Moroccan and foreigner aged between 15 and 17 years of age. Child migrants in Morocco tend to hail from sub‑Saharan African countries such as Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal and the Sudan. A significant number of accompanied children, either who have travelled with their parents or born in Morocco, are also present.
Unaccompanied and separated migrant children transiting through Morocco are more susceptible to smuggling and trafficking than accompanied children. Migrant girls are exponentially more at risk of trafficking and various forms of gender‑based violence. Globally, trafficked migrant children are exploited mainly for begging in large cities such as Marrakech and Casablanca. These children and youth turn to smugglers and traffickers, who often come from the same countries of origin as the children, for help in their irregular migration to Europe and are then end up being caught in exploitation and trafficking networks.
It should be noted that under the direction of the Presidency of the Public Ministry and with the support of UNICEF Morocco, Morocco has established standards operational procedures for the care of children on the move in 2023. These procedures have been developed in a participatory manner and with multisectoral institutional and civil society actors. The French version of the standards operational procedures for the care of children on the move is available and the Arabic one is being finalized.
In addition, a territorial protocol for the care of vulnerable children and those in contact with the law including children on the move in Morocco was adopted and signed on 27 May 2024 by six key ministeries.
North Africa is a pivotal area for international, regional and intraregional migration. A massive share of migrants travelling irregularly across the MENA region transit through North Africa to travel along the West and Central Mediterranean routes en route to other countries in North Africa, Europe and other destinations.
In 2023 child migrants represented the 32 per cent of the migrant population in North Africa. Mixed migratory movements in MENA include asylum‑seekers, refugees, victims of trafficking, as well as migrant children. Unaccompanied migrant children travel along the main migration routes, including those crossing the Mediterranean from North Africa or the Atlantic Ocean from Morocco and West Africa.
Insecurity, violation of human rights, lack of protection, and limited access to services are key drivers of child migration. This is even truer for women and girls who suffer from discriminatory gender norms and struggle significantly to access services, including education and employment.
Migration movements in North Africa are closely linked to migration dynamics in West and Central Africa. Common reasons for child migration from the subregion are poverty, insecurity, education, but also family reunification in third countries and fleeing natural disasters. Children and adolescents may migrate inter‑regionally or towards Europe and North Africa. The Niger is one of the main transit countries for accompanied and unaccompanied migrant children heading to North Africa. These children and youngsters come from the Gambia, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, among others.
Migrant children may be accompanied by their parents or caregivers, but many are unaccompanied or become separated from their parents and families along the journey, such as in the case of children left behind identified by IOM in North African countries. Separation from their families and safety nets exposes unaccompanied migrant children to the risks of violence, discrimination, and detention – a concerning trend for children on the move.
Given the limited opportunities to migrate regularly, unaccompanied child migrants often resort to hiring smugglers exposing themselves to the risk of violence and exploitation. Phenomena such as child begging, trafficking and forced labour are present in the subregions and can be linked to migration.
Once migrant children have been identified, an assessment of their family and the identity of their family members in countries of origin should be ensured. In this context, cross‑border coordination is essential to ensure family reunification and unity. To do so the case worker should:
• Gather detailed information about the identity of the family from the child and other children or adults accompanying the child;
• Facilitate communication between the child and family members, if requested by the child;
• Verify that other family members reside or are present in the country of transit in cooperation with national authorities;
• Coordinate with the embassy or consulate of the country of origin to assist in verifying the identity of family members and their family relationships. Diplomatic missions can also assist in gathering other information that may be useful in assessing the household and relationships;
• Coordinate with trusted chiefs and members of migrant communities or migrant field workers to trace and collect information about the family;
• Coordinate with UN agencies and international organizations (including faith‑based organizations) with missions in countries of origin, transit and destination to verify family members’ identities, relationships and support during the family assessment.
Once the child has been identified and the BIA has been conducted, a case plan must be developed and implemented by the caseworker in the country where the child was identified.
• After completion of the assessment a case plan should be developed by the case manager in collaboration with the child – if appropriate – considering the child’s short, medium and long‑term needs and actions.
• Parents and relatives as well as other service providers can participate to the case planning if necessary and after getting the child’s informed assent and the family consent.
• The plan should define the strategy to implement the measures decided in the BIA. The plan should also specify objectives, actions, deadlines and responsibilities and it should be accompanied by a follow up and evaluation plan.
• When the child is accompanied by family or guardians or when the family has been traced, the caseworker must develop a case plan following a family‑centred approach, after verifying that the guardian/family does not pose a risk to the child. According to the assessment of the family’s capacity to take care of the child, the caseworker should develop actions to support and fill the gaps. The family should be involved during the elaboration of the plan.
• For children on the move, the case plan is part of the set of recommendations presented to the BID panel prior to implementation.
State actors and governments are primary responsible for child protection. Consequently, they have the main role of delivering responses through case management. In national and local contexts where skilled and adequate national child protection actors and social services are available, third parties should not be directly involved in case management, but rather supporting and strengthening the national child protection system. National child protection authorities have primary responsibility for the protection of children on the move, including the various steps of case management. United Nations and international actors should support strengthening national child protection authorities in cross‑border coordination and mechanisms such as family tracing and assessment until case closure.
The following actors may be involved in implementation of the Regional Child Protection Standard Operating Procedures. Specialized training and qualifications should be required for operators and those working directly with children.
The Best Interests Determination is a formal procedure to ensure long‑term decisions affecting a child are taken following strict procedural safeguards and to ensure the child’s best interests. According to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, States are the primary entities responsible for conducting the BID. Only in exceptional cases, as a last resort, and when all means have been exhausted and circumstances or procedures do not allow for State authorities to lead the BID, other qualified actors should take the lead in the process, in such case their responsibility should be clearly defined and limited.
The procedure should be used to provide durable solutions for:
• unaccompanied and separated children;
• accompanied children who have been found to be at risk from their parents or legal or customary caregivers and for whom alternative care arrangements need to be identified.
• Once the BIA and the Family tracing assessment are finalized, the caseworker should prepare the BID report and draft preliminary recommendations for the specific case.
• Before starting the case file preparation, the following should be appointed: a BID caseworker in charge of gathering information and preparing the file and is usually the caseworker assigned to the child; a BID Reviewing Officer, responsible for a general review; a BID Supervisor responsible for the final review and the communication of any comment or endorsement in writing and motivating the final recommendations.
• A BID panel should be established and the role of the state in this phase is fundamental. National child protection authorities, such as child protection departments and involved child protection centres and institutions, should lead and – if not possible – participate in BID panels. It should be composed of multidisciplinary professionals to ensure the inclusion of different factors in the analysis and decision, such as migration, age, and cultural origin respect for a rights‑based and gender approach.
• The BID panel should be nominated to ensure the decision is made according to the following principles: the child is a rights holder; the child’s view should be given due weight in the decision; BID Panel members act as an advocate for the child; and BID panel members are objective and neutral.
• The BID panel should decide on the long‑term solution in the best interests of the child. The panel must consider factors that are often contradictory, must include documentation justifying their decisions and why they are in the best interests of the child.
• If it is not possible to establish a BID panel, simplified procedures may be considered, consisting of reducing or adjusting the panel membership or replacing the panel with a reviewing officer with child protection expertise.
• The final BID decision must include and justify measures in the best interests of the child detailing whether the child will remain in the hosting country, return voluntarily to the country of origin or resettle in a third country. The BID decision should include information about the implementation of protection measures and sustainable solutions proposed. An action plan based on input from the child and the child’s guardian should be also included.
• At all stages of the BID procedure, the child and/or the family should have access to pathways such as international protection, other status determination procedures or voluntary return.
The Government of Libya signed the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1993 however to date there is no comprehensive child rights law. The Ministry of Social Affairs has the mandate for Child Protection in Libya, though the child protection agenda remains fragmented across a number of Ministries including the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Justice. UNICEF and IOM work in collaboration with the Directorate for Combating Illegal Migration, an agency of the Libyan Ministry of Interior, which manages the immigration detention centres where migrant children are held. In some specific cases, the Libyan Border Guards are responsible for rescuing and assisting children separated from their families or stranded at the border.
By law, legal representation and guardianship of unaccompanied and separated migrant children is provided by diplomatic representatives from embassies and consulates of countries of origin. Legal guardians are responsible for following up on individual cases, issuing travel documents and being heard by caseworkers to compile the case for the Best Interest Determination (BID).
Interagency BID panels are present in the country and decide on the refugee status and voluntary return of unaccompanied migrant children. National authorities and institutions do not participate in the panel’s deliberations and decisions.
IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF have developed joint interagency Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for BID and BIA, which have been highlighted as best practices in the MENA region.
Local integration and long‑term alternative care solutions are limited. As a result, the only option for many migrant children may be to return to their country of origin.
Main sources
• Law No. 6 of 1987 regulating the entry, stay, and exit of foreigners in Libya and its amendments
• Law No. 19 of 2010 on Combatting Illegal Immigration
The National Child Protection System is overseen by the Ministry of National Solidarity, the Family, and the Status of Women thorugh child protection mechanisms such as the management of the local Shelters for Assisted Children, which provide accommodation and protection to abandoned or orphaned national children, until they are placed in a family under Kafala regulation.
According to the National Child Protection Law, the National Office for the Protection and Promotion of Childhood (ONPPE) is designated as the primary authority responsible for safeguarding and advancing children's rights, as well as coordinating the efforts of all stakeholders in the field of child protection.
A national BID panel exists in Algeria and is composed by representatives from IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF covering voluntary return and asylum claims.
Regarding alternative care and sustainable solutions for migrant children, IOM and UNHCR collaborate with the National Joint Ministerial Committee on Migration on voluntary return and asylum.
Main sources
• Child protection law No. 15/12 of 2015
• Law No. 08/11 of 2008 on Conditions of entry, residence and movement of foreigners in Algeria
• Decree No. 63/274 of 1963, implementing the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees
• Law No. 23/04 of 2023 on preventing and combating human trafficking
The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) is in charge of the implementation of the National Child law and legal framework on child protection. NCCM cooperates with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Social Services and the National Coordinating Committee for Combating and Preventing Illegal Migration and Trafficking on the protection of children on the move. The NCCM is also responsible for coordinating local Governorate and District Child Protection Committees involved in the identification and referral of migrant children.
A National taskforce for children on the move composed of governmental representatives, IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF has been established in 2018 to support the Government to facilitate a coordinated assistance and protection response.
A national Best Interest Determination (BID) panel chaired by UNHCR exists for refugee and asylum‑seeking children. A temporary BID panel for migrant children asking for voluntary humanitarian return was established by IOM in cooperation with UNICEF and Save the Children in 2023 for children with dual nationalities who were being evacuated out of Gaza.
National Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the assistance and protection of refugee children and child victims of trafficking and smuggling have been developed and include a system for automatically appointing the NCCM as the legal guardian of unaccompanied and separated migrant children.
Alternative care solutions are provided to migrant children including informal fostering by families from the migrant communities under the monitoring of civil society actors.
Main sources
• Child Protection Law No. 12 of 1996, amended by Law No. 126 of 2008
• Law No. 64 of 2010 regarding Combating Human Trafficking
• Law No. 82 of 2016 on Combating Illegal Migration and Smuggling of Migrants
• Strategic Framework and National Plan for Childhood and Motherhood in Egypt (SF&NPCM) 2018–2030
• National Strategic Framework for Ending Violence against Children of 2018
• National Strategy for Combating and Preventing Human Trafficking 2022–2026
• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the Protection and Assistance of Child‑Asylum Seekers, Refugees, and Victims of Migrant Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons, 2020
The Niger is an origin and transit country for migrant children and youth who are primarily escaping from poverty and seeking better work and education opportunities for themselves and their families.
The main destination of migrants in the Niger is Europe, more specifically, countries such as France, Italy and Spain. Migrant children transiting through the Niger often also remain in Libya to work.
Migration patterns involving children on the move from the Niger and neighbouring countries are deeply rooted in the traditional custom of entrusting children to other families known to the community of origin, which encourages parents to trust family or community members to take care of their children.
Young teenagers from 15 to 17 years old from Cameroon, Guinea, Mali and Nigeria, migrate alone or in groups and are usually accompanied to Algeria by their parents or family members.
Trafficking and smuggling practices have been identified in these migratory flows, leading to the exploitation of children, especially boys or adolescents, particularly for begging.
The Niger’s child protection system, policies and legal framework coordinated by the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection are applied to the protection of children on the move. The national child protection system is decentralized and organized into different levels. Child protection Commitees are established at the national, regional and local levels including also village and tribal child protection committees.
The national child protection policy, which is currently under evaluation, includes indicators on children on the move. After the evaluation and assessment phase, a new child protection policy will be adopted which will address the protection needs of children on the move in all aspects.
The National Migration Strategy is implemented by the Permanent Secretariat of the Concertation Framework on Migration which is mandated to coordinate stakeholders in migration management.
In the absence of a Best Interest Determination (BID) Panel, identification and family tracing are validated by juvenile court judges, who may also issue temporary placement orders in child care facilities.
Joint child protection Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been developed by the Government of the Niger in collaboration with UN agencies and International organizations.
The law provides alternative care solutions such as foster families for vulnerable children including migrant children without parental care and victims of trafficking. IOM in the Niger works closely with institutional actors to facilitate the placement of migrant children in foster families while waiting for voluntary return to their countries of origin. The adoption of family‑based care solutions for foreign migrant children will be expanded in the future and the mechanism will allow migrant families settled in the Niger to be selected as foster families.
Main sources
• Ordinance No. 81/40 of 1981 on the entry and residence of foreigners in the Niger
• Decree No. 87/076/PCMS/MI/MAE/C of 1987 regulating entry and residence conditions for foreigners in the Niger
• Law No. 97/016 of 1997 and Decree No. 98‑382/PRN/MI/AT of 1998, determining the application of law No. 97/016 of 1997 on the status of refugees in the Niger
• Ordinance No. 2010/86 of 2010 on fighting against Human Trafficking
• Child Protection Framework Document of 2011
• National Youth Policy 2023–2032
• National Migration Policy 2020–2035
• Law n°2019–29 of July 1, 2019 governing civil registration status in the Niger and decree n°2019–463 of 23 August 2019
The child protection system in Mauritania is managed by the Ministry of Social Action, Childhood and the Family and its Child Protection Directorate which supervises the implementation of the national law and strategy for the protection of children on the move. In parallel, the interministerial National Executive Secretariat for Migration Management is in charge of enacting the National Strategy for Migration Management.
The National Children’s Council has also been established and it is responsible for supporting the Government in the coordination, development, implementation and monitoring of child protection programmes.
A Best Interest Determination (BID) Panel led by institutional actors in collaboration with UN agencies such as IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF is present and should decide on sustainable solutions for refugee and migrant children.
Joint National Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the protection of children on the move have been developed by the Government of Mauritania in collaboration with UN agencies and International organizations.
The most common durable solutions for migrant children are voluntary return to their country of origin and foster care. Key actors in Mauritania have developed a regional best practice, collaborating with the national government in the establishment and implementation of a mechanism of temporary foster care for unaccompanied and separated migrant children waiting for family tracing and reunification, voluntary return, or other long‑term solutions.
Main sources
• Child Protection Code Law No.018 of 2018
• Decree No. 64/169 of 1964 and Decree No. 65/110 of 1965 on immigration system in Mauritania
• Law No. 025/2003 of 2003 on the repression of human trafficking
• Law No. 2010/021 of 2010 on fighting smuggling of migrants
• National strategy for child protection 2020–2025
• National strategy for better migration management of 2010
• Legal framework relating to the status of Temporary Host Families
The following list represents the main sources that constitute the legal and policy framework at the international and African regional levels applicable to North African and neighbouring countries on migration and child protection. The framework provides the context for soft and binding laws and regulations that ensure the commitment of stakeholders to child protection through the obligation to respect and fulfill children’s rights. These instruments are key to identifying roles and responsibilities at national and international levels in the protection of children on the move.
International
• United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC)
• United Nations 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol
• United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW)
• United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
• United Nations Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration
• United Nations Global Compact on Refugees
• United Nations International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families
• United Nations Protocol Against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air, supplementing the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime
• United Nations Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons Especially Women and Children, supplementing the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime
• United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights
Regional
• African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights
• African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child
• African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons in Africa (Kampala Convention)
• ECOWAS procedures and standards for the protection and reintegration of vulnerable children affected by mobility and young migrants
• Migration Policy Framework for Africa and Plan of Action (2018 – 2030)
• Organization of African Unity (OAU) Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa
• Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community Relating to Free Movement of Persons, Right of Residence and Right of Establishment
The identification phase during the child protection case management cycle may also be crucial to detect cases of migrant children victims or potential victims of trafficking.
According to UNODC, child trafficking involves the use of children for the purpose of exploitation in various ways as a crime and a serious violation of human rights. The apparent consent of the child to be exploited, especially when force, deception, coercion or abuse of power or vulnerability are used is irrelevant.
During interviews, the child protection focal point/caseworker should pay attention to specific indicators that may facilitate the discovery of a case of trafficking. That is why it is highly important that front-line workers and stakeholders in the field are aware of what child trafficking is, how to detect it, and where to refer any possible victim for further investigation.
UNODC international indicators related to children who might have been trafficked
The following is not an exhaustive list of indicators. These indicators may also be present in cases of other vulnerabilities or other forms of violence or abuse.
• Have no access to their parents or guardians;
• Look intimidated and behave in a way that does not correspond with behaviour typical of children their age;
• Have no friends of their own age outside of work;
• Have no access to education;
• Have no time for playing;
• Live apart from other children and in substandard accommodations;
• Eat apart from other members of the “family”;
• Are given only leftovers to eat;
• Are engaged in work that is not suitable for children;
• Travel unaccompanied by adults;
• Travel in groups with persons who are not relatives;
• The presence of child‑sized clothing typically worn for doing manual or sex work;
• The presence of toys, beds and children’s clothing in inappropriate places such as brothels and factories;
• The claim made by an adult that he or she has “found” an unaccompanied child;
• The finding of unaccompanied children carrying telephone numbers for calling taxis;
• The discovery of cases involving illegal adoption.
The intersectional approach can be followed for assessing migrants’ vulnerability and resilience, particularly to violence, exploitation and abuse. Experiences of migrants and migrant children are influenced by the intertwined dynamics of risk and protective factors at the individual, household, community and structural levels. The vulnerability of migrant children can be both situational and/or rooted in their status as children. Unaccompanied and separated children are particularly vulnerable and require specific responses.
The following parameters can also be considered when developing an intersectional analysis:
• How social categories intersect and generate social inequality;
• Inequalities and dynamics linked to relationships;
• Influence of time and location on power configurations;
• Structural and political context;
• Power relations;
• Implications for most disadvantaged groups and individuals;
• Reflection of practitioners’ background on their action.
In the case of children on the move, several factors may combine to create a situation of high risk or vulnerability. Some of the factors to consider include:
• Being a child;
• Lack of caregivers;
• Different cultural backgrounds, beliefs and traditions;
• Irregular migration status;
• Xenophobia, discrimination and stigma;
• High mobility;
• Gender.
The present suggested SOPs are part of the IOM RDPP Regional Child Protection Operational Guidance and provide essential guidance on a wide range of integrated and regional best practices for the protection of children on the move with a special focus on cross‑border coordination and continuum of care.
This tool is intended to provide UN agencies’ country offices, as well as national and subnational child protection authorities and CSOs, with a common basis for ensuring the harmonized development and implementation of existing and future SOPs and child protection tools for children on the move in North Africa, with a particular focus on the child protection challenges on the migration corridors between West Central Africa and North Africa.
The protection of children on the move is ensured by different institutional actors and frameworks in Morocco. The National Strategy on Migration and Asylum, which is implemented by the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates guarantees migrants (including children) access to services and assistance.
The Integrated Public Policy for Child Protection in Morocco (PPIPEM), which is implemented by the Ministry of Solidarity, Social Integration and Family and other institutions, is also applied in favour of migrant children. The PPIPEM has established a system of integrated territorial child protection bodies, including the creation of local child protection support centres (CAPE) in several Moroccan provinces. The CAPE is also accessible for migrant children, among other populations. The social child protection services provided by the CAPE, offer an alternative or a complement to the judicial procedures for specific cases and allow local centres to systematically assess migrant children’s needs and vulnerabilities and to ensure appropriate referrals. Furthermore, the Ministry of Solidarity, Social integration and Family with the support of UNICEF, has developed a set of tools to ensure the complementarity of interventions by decentralized public services involved in child protection.
In 2019, a national commission for the coordination of measures to combat and prevent human trafficking was established. It proposes mechanisms combining prevention, awareness, imperatives of sanction, and deterrence of human trafficking with a focus on child victims of trafficking or potential child victims of trafficking.
Separated and unaccompanied children are entitled to legal guardianship under Moroccan law. Juvenile court judges are identified as legal guardians and preside upon decisions regarding the children’s protection, such as placement in shelters.
Residential care and placement in shelters, family reunification, integration into schools, are the main long‑term alternative solution available for migrant children in the country. Some CSOs provide shelter and assistance also to unaccompanied migrants that have recently “aged out” of the system by turning 18.
Main sources
• Family Code, Law No. 70/03 and Dahir n° 1‑04‑22 of 2004
• Law on the entry and residence of foreigners No. 02/03 of 2003
• Law No. 27/14 of 2014 regarding Combating Human Trafficking
• Integrated Public Policy for Child Protection in Morocco (PPIPEM) 2015–2025
• National Immigration and Asylum Strategy of 2013
• National plan to combat and prevent human trafficking 2023–2030
The safe referral of children on the move when potential or actual victims of trafficking requires additional attention and a higher level of safety measures due to high vulnerability and risk of continuous violence or retaliation from traffickers.
Identification and referral of child victims of trafficking should always take into account the child’s age, culture, level, development and language. Measures such as the provision of an interpreter and a trained psychologist should be ensured.
The identification and assessment of the services for children should be completed by the organization managing the case with close inter‑organization coordination prior to the child’s referral.
The following information should be carefully verified in advance:
• Available and unavailable services;
• Capacities such as security measures, confidential data management, translation and cultural mediation;
• Non‑discrimination and protection policies and measures;
• Safe data storage and sharing procedures;
• Referral pathways (first contact, information sharing with the potential or actual victim, transfer, escort, reception, etc.);
• Follow up.
If there is a suspicion that the parents or the members of the family accompanying the child may be involved in trafficking, the following risks should be assessed:
• The involvement of the child’s family in trafficking;
• The existence of support mechanisms for the child and the family;
• Re‑trafficking of the child once returned to the family;
• The ability of the family to afford treatment for a child with illness or trauma.
When identification and referral of children on the move, especially when victims of trafficking, involve different agencies and organizations they should ensure close and transparent inter‑agency coordination during the different phases of the process.
The second step in the cycle of child protection case management is the assessment of specific needs and vulnerabilities in light of the best interests principle. The Best Interests Assessment (BIA) is an individual and continuous process that is important for all children affected by migration, either accompanied or unaccompanied and separated in particular. The BIA starts with the identification of the child and it continues providing recommendations for immediate and short‑term responses until the best interests determination procedure is finalized.
• Once the caseworker has identified the child, enquired if the child’s parents or legal guardian are reachable and/or available, and has proceeded to the child’s registration, an assessment is needed in the following 24 hours to address immediate needs identified.
• The BIA can take place when the child is unaccompanied, separated or accompanied when a risk for the child is identified. In these cases, the BIA should evaluate not only the immediate concrete needs of the child but also the relationship with the legal guardians and proceed to alternative care solutions.
• In the case of unaccompanied migrant children identified at borders and in transit, the caseworker should first inform national child protection authorities and ensure the appointment of a qualified legal guardian by administrative or judicial actors.
• If any decision is made about the case, the child should be informed and the following steps should be explained clearly to the child to obtain informed assent or consent in the absence of adequate legal guardians.
• Collecting data during the BIA can highlight the specific child’s migration profile. While conducting the assessment, it may become apparent that the child has fled conflict or persecution. If this is the case, referral to UNHCR is essential.
• At the end of the process, the caseworker should verify that during BIA safeguarding standards were respected during the process and tailored recommendations have been made. The final step involves a plan of action responding to immediate needs and recommendations for the medium and long term.
The timely and child‑sensitive identification of children on the move is crucial to understanding their needs and effectively protecting them. The identification phase can refer to:
(a) Identify the type of vulnerability (or vulnerabilities) connected to the migrant child’s situation
(b) Ensure the personal identification of each individual child.
• Children on the move may be identified by police or other front line national authorities who must refer the child to national child protection services. Community leaders or customary authorities and other local social services may be involved.
• A child protection caseworker is appointed by the appropriate national authority. The caseworker has a supportive role, providing case management information to the child and the child’s caregivers, promoting the child’s meaningful participation, and providing non‑specialized mental health and psychosocial support.
• After being identified, the child should be registered by the organization taking the lead on the case and collect background and necessary information such as:
- Child’s personal details
- Household characteristics
- Family details
- Care arrangements
- Child’s situation in terms of emotional and physical safety, education, work, social network,
- legal status
• If the child is accompanied, the informed consent of parents or legal guardians should be obtained to collect data concerning the child. In this case, the Best Interests Assessment (BIA) and Best Interests Determination (BID) are not automatically required, as accompanying adults are the primarily guardian for the child and able to decide in the child’s best interests. However, when a risk or threat to the child’s well‑being is identified like in cases of abuse, neglect, or separation from parents, the BIA and BID procedures might also be necessary for accompanied children.
• As soon as an unaccompanied migrant child is identified, the child should be placed in a safe environment or facility – alternative care options are preferrable – following a decision by the competent national authority. Child protection authorities should be informed before beginning any activities related to the best interests procedure. If the child is separated and accompanied by adults who are not their legal guardians, it is crucial to assess and examine the family linkages or relationships between the accompanying adult/s and the child.
• Simultaneously a legal guardian should be appointed for unaccompanied and separated children as soon as identification takes place.
• In cases when there is a doubt about the child’s age it is possible to conduct an assessment. Age assessments have to be carried out after obtaining the child’s assent or consent and appointing a legal guardian while following child and gender‑sensitive approaches. In case of persistent doubt about the age, the individual should be considered a child. The procedure should be considered as a measure of last resort and should follow the best interests of the child principle.
• A preliminary risk assessment should be conducted by the caseworker considering the different needs that the child might present, and which may require immediate intervention.
The transfer of a case can be internal or external and it should be done only when necessary and under specific circumstances:
• A child in the care of a case management system moves to a different location.
• The organization or caseworker who has been following the case is no longer considered suitable to or cannot for other reasons continue protecting the child.
In these cases, the full responsibility of the case including planning, implementation and follow up is transferred to another organization, agency or department. The decision regarding the transfer should be carefully analysed and balanced with the best interests of the child. Before identifying the new organization, an assessment should be conducted to ensure the child will receive better assistance. The case manager should inform the child and caregivers of the details and reasons for the transfer and any additional useful information. The case manager should plan and provide a complete and detailed handover of the case plan and its implementation to the new manager or organization, following clear procedures and always ensuring confidentiality. Before sharing documents and information the assent or consent of the child and the consent of the parents or guardian should be obtained. The case manager should accompany the child and the family – if present – through the transition.
Tunisia is primarily a country of origin and transit for migrant children, both Tunisian and foreign. Children on the move cross into Tunisia through the northwestern and southern borders with Algeria and hail from several west African countries such as Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, Nigeria and Sierra Leone but also Eritrea, Somalia and the Sudan.
Migrant children often rely on smugglers’ networks to cross land borders and the Mediterranean Sea. Many unaccompanied migrant children are pushed by their families to migrate to reach Europe to seek employment and contribute to the family’s livelihood.
Unaccompanied migrant children often rely on national and African criminal networks to help them cross borders irregularly. In this context, cases of exploitation of unaccompanied and separated migrant children through kidnapping are reported throughout the country.
Young migrant women and girls face an increased risk of sexual abuse and violence, often resulting in unwanted pregnancies.
Tunisia’s child protection legislation and National Integrated Public Policy for the Prevention and Protection of Children (PPIPPE) (not yet passed) are aligned with international standards and should be applicable to migrant children. The Child Protection Code is enforced by the Ministry of Family, Women, Children and the Elderly which coordinates the Child Protection Delegates which are in charge of managing cases of children at risk such as homeless, begging, or abused children, etc.
Tunisian legislation also requires a legal guardianship system for children lacking parental care. This system appoints the directors of hosting centres or hospitals or the governor of the region as legal guardians to these children. Despite some cases where the national guardianship procedure has been followed, decisions regarding migrant children are generally made by family judges.
The IOM and UNHCR facilitate the tenure of joint Best Interest Determination (BID) panels that includes child protection authorities as well as UNICEF and CSOs that assess and determine durable solutions for children on the move.
Durable solutions for migrant children are available and include family tracing, family assessment and reunification in countries of destination and origin. Integration in Tunisia is considered in very limited cases when possible. Unaccompanied migrant children are usually placed in temporary residential care in public centres administered by the Ministry of Social Affairs. In some cases, unaccompanied migrant children are hosted in mixed juvenile centres for children in conflict with the law, however they are under a different regime and are allowed to leave the centres during the day.
Main sources
• Child Protection Code, Law No. 95/92 of 1995
• Law No. 68/7 of 1968, on the status of foreigners in Tunisia
• Law No. 75/40 of 14 May 1975, relating to passports and travel documents
• Law No. 2004/6 of 3 February 2004, amending Law No. 75/40 of 14 May 1975, relating to passports and travel documents
• Law No. 2016/61 of 2016 on preventing and combating Human Trafficking
• Decree No. 2003/777 of 2003 ratifying the Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land
• Integrated Public Policy for the Prevention and Protection of Children 2021–2030 (draft)
• National Migration Strategy of 2017
Voluntary return and reintegration are a sustainable solution for migrant children when in line with their best interests and wishes, based on child rights’ and when they don’t pose a risk of harm or danger in line with the non‑refoulement and do no harm principle.
In the case of voluntary return of a child, social workers in the country of origin should take the lead in case management, monitoring and the reintegration process. Where family reunification is not in the best interests of the child or is not feasible, family‑based alternative care options should be sought in the country of identification and/or origin.
In the case of unaccompanied and separated children, the reintegration assistance should be based on the recommendations agreed by the BID panel. The involvement of national child protection actors in the reintegration process is critical. The BID for return and reintegration should provide sustainable solutions for long‑term protection decided with the child’s participation in the host country and prior to the child’s‑return.
Risk factors such as trafficking and exploitation should be identified and assessed through individual risk assessments and addressed via risk management plans if significant risks are identified by caseworkers.
Where possible, the reintegration assistance is prepared as soon as the return decision is taken. The caseworker should elaborate a reintegration plan together with the child whether unaccompanied and separated or with a family. Monitoring of the reintegration process should be ensured for at least 2 years or until the child’s living conditions and life are stable and sustainable.
When children are lacking parental care, including unaccompanied and separated children, and cannot be reunited with their families and caregivers, States must ensure their protection and provide alternative care.
Alternative care options should be considered on a case‑by‑case bases through a Best Interest Determination process that includes the participation of the child and respects the children’s rights, including the right to be informed and not to be discriminated. A legal guardian should be appointed as soon as the child is identified to ensure legal representation during the identification and family tracing process.
When evaluating temporary and long‑term options, family‑based care should be preferred to residential care especially to avoid institutionalizing children in large childcare facilities. Various kinds of formal and informal alternative care are approved by international guidelines like kinship care, foster care, residential care and supervised independent living arrangements.
Research and child protection advocates confirm the harmful effects that institutionalization can have on children, including children on the move. That is why large‑scale facilities should be replaced by individual and small‑scale quality care solutions, including family and community‑based care.
Family‑ and community‑based foster care solutions may include traditional foster care systems like kafala which is an instrument provided by Islamic law as an alternative care option for orphaned and abandoned children. The 2009 Guidelines on Alternative Care encourage States to consider long‑term options such as kafala and adoption only as a last resort, after attempting to reestablish family ties and placing the child with his or her parents, extended family or customary caregivers.
In many North African countries residential care is the main option available to unaccompanied and separated migrant children due to the emergency settings created by climate change, instability and poverty. However, some countries like Mauritania and Egypt, employ other forms of alternative care solutions, such as foster families and supervised independent living arrangements.
When migrant children are identified in cross‑border settings the best interests procedure should include the coordination of key stakeholders from the different countries involved and multi‑lateral mechanisms complying with the respective national legislations.
If migrant children do not have reliable personal identification documents or their parents cannot prove their identity and parent‑child relationship, the following recommendations should be followed:
• Coordination with child protection national authorities should be ensured to verify if transnational or regional agreements or mechanisms are in place to facilitate the identification of migrant children
• Coordination with origin countries’ embassies and consulates in the country where the child is located should be facilitated and supported to verify identification documents if presented or obtaining proofs and document attesting the child’s identity, the child’s origin and family
• Trusted chiefs and trusted members of migrants’ communities can be appointed by countries of origin embassies and consulates or national authorities of the country where children are identified to facilitate their identification. This approach can be useful when countries of origin diplomatic missions are not available in transit and destination countries. It can be adopted only if monitored and if the risk of involvement in trafficking networks is excluded
• Migrant field operators from international and local CSOs working on child protection can be involved to mediate with migrant communities and assist in the verification of migrant children’s identity
• UN agencies or international actors (including faith‑based organizations) with available missions in countries of origin, transit and destination should be involved to facilitate coordination between countries to verify the identity of migrant children and their families
When working with children on the move, including children who have survived violence and gender‑based violence, it is of the utmost importance to respect the following principles:
Transparency: The child and the caregivers have the right to be informed about the options and choices that concern the child, as well as their rights. Language and terminology should be child‑friendly and accessible.
Informed assent/ consent: The collection of information about a child should be coordinated with and approved by the child’s legal guardian through informed consent, unless contact with them could be harmful to the child. The child should be heard and give informed assent/ consent to all case procedures, steps and circumstances.
Confidentiality: Sensitive information about the child’s identity and the case should be recorded and protected. The use of anonymized information should be preferred. Children should be informed about the data collection methods and objectives and give their informed assent/ consent.
Need‑to‑know based: The information gathered must be shared to the minimum extent necessary to allow the process to develop and an action to be taken.
Security and accountability: Sensitive information should be stored in a secure and protected manner. Clear roles and responsibilities should be established within organizations involved in child protection to ensure a chain of responsibility for the storage and protection of data.
Whenever an incident of gender‑based violence is disclosed, specialized GBV services should be provided only by dedicated and specialized GBV actors. Non‑specialized actors should only be involved in timely and safe referrals. In these cases, the following recommendations should be considered:
DOs
• In case of front‑line workers, they can always contact a child protection specialist from IOM or a Protection Focal Point working the same area for advice.
• Check the national legal framework related to the obligation to report a GBV case, especially for children.
• Call and communicate with the child protection focal point while you are still with the child and wait for them to arrive before leaving.
• In case no child protection referral pathway is available, bring the child to an appropriate service provider and/or a known and trusted adult where available.
• Assess basic needs before asking about migration, experiences, etc.
• Respect and affirm the child survivor’s wishes and feelings.
• Inform the child promptly about available services for child survivors of GBV.
• Ensure confidentiality and safety.
• Show honesty and transparency.
• Get informed consent before collecting data and sharing them with other actors.
• Ensure attention and active listening (for instance through eye contact, empathy, understanding cultural and linguistic specific expressions, playing with the child, etc.).
• Obtain informed consent to each step of identification, referral and protection.
• Always assess that decisions made for the child by parents or legal guardians (when present) correspond to the best interests of the child.
• The accompanying adult should be selected by the child.
• Ensure the child survivor’s access to services and accompany the child if needed.
• Ensure your safety, the safety of your staff and of survivors and their community.
• Look out for specific signs of concern such as medical problems such as stomach pains when walking or sitting; chronic itching, pain, discharge, bleeding from the genitals; sexually transmitted diseases; pregnancy.
• Watch for sudden changes in behaviour, isolation, lack of trust or fear of someone they know well.
DON’Ts
• Don’t write anything down, take photos or record a conversation.
• Don’t look for survivors of GBV or victims of violence.
• Don’t ask directly about violent experiences and do not re‑traumatize the child.
• Don’t share information about the child with anyone else aside from the child protection referral point or an appropriate available service provider where there is no child protection referral pathway or actor.
• Don’t be influenced by the organization or personal background. Don’t judge or blame.
• Don’t insist or push a child survivor to share information and give the opportunity to stop and re‑start talking.
• Don’t ask a child survivor to share their experiences in the presence of family members or friends.
• Don’t touch the child and do not use negative body language.
• Don’t make decisions on behalf of the child survivor.
• Don’t share details or talk with colleagues about cases in visible settings.
• Ensure the integration of children on the move as beneficiaries of national child protection systems and arrangements for alternative care solutions, especially community and family‑based solutions.
• Promote traditional forms of community and family‑based care for children on the move supervised and monitored by child protection state actors. Ensure that residential care facilities are accessible to children on the move and that services and structures meet international standards and guidelines.
• Ensure the involvement and oversight of family caregivers and legal guardians in the processes and decisions related to alternative care solutions.
• Develop monitoring systems and tools to enable regular evaluation of the functioning and performance of alternative care systems at local and national levels, including children’s participation and feedback.
• Prevent the detention of children and promote a child‑friendly interpretation of legal and policy frameworks on regular/irregular migration including for family reunification purposes, should the family be in administrative detention.
• Collaborate with national, regional and international observatories on migration and child protection to prevent the detention of children, promoting the development of and providing financial support for child rights‑based community and family‑based alternative care arrangements.
• Establish bilateral and multilateral coordination and information sharing mechanisms based on respective national counter‑trafficking frameworks that are inclusive of the special needs of children victims of trafficking.
• Ensure a child‑centred approach that prioritizes the identification of victims and the care and reception of migrant children, including during border management operations.
• Ensure specialized childcare facilities and services for child victims of trafficking, abuse and exploitation.
• Develop adequate protection frameworks for children on the move victims of trafficking to remain in a state’s territory, temporarily or permanently, in appropriate cases and to take into consideration the special needs of children, including appropriate housing, education and care.
• Apply the decriminalization of criminal acts committed by child victims of trafficking in the context of their trafficking situation.
• Establish safe communication and monitoring mechanisms between child protection and counter trafficking national institutional actors and international actors.
• Establish bi‑ and multi‑ lateral joint coordination to strengthen national child protection case management, inclusive of CSOs and international organizations toward harmonizing frameworks, case management procedures, and tools for the protection of children on the move within and across borders.
• Map and update accredited and reliable stakeholders, services and providers along migration routes to enhance assistance to and protection of migrants in vulnerable situations, including children victims of trafficking, smuggled children and survivors of gender‑based violence.
• Ensure effective communication and clear information on national and local legal and customary practices by creating common tools such as whole‑of‑government/whole‑of‑society SOPs and bi‑ or multilateral technical notes, involving stakeholders in countries of origin, countries of transit and possible countries of further movement, to support BIA and BID assessments and inform available sustainable solutions and implement them.
• Establish common cross‑border mechanisms among child protection actors to exchange information, facilitate case transfer and synergize in tracing families and assessing.
• Ensure regular involvement of diplomatic representatives from country of origin in the various stages of case management.
• Establish local, national, regional and transnational joint coordination mechanisms of CSOs, institutions, and international organizations for improved identification and referral of child victims of trafficking. These mechanisms should also share and update information regarding children on the move and child trafficking.
• Develop and/or share existing stakeholders and service mappings for children on the move and victims of trafficking. Include emergency contacts of actors involved in migrant children’s case management.
• Train case workers and front‑line responders on child trafficking, and protection of child victims of trafficking and exploitation including specific rights of children VOTs.
• Strengthen common dialogue and exchange on prevention and safe solutions for protection of children on the move from trafficking, involving migrant communities.
• Facilitate family tracing and reunification for migrant children through national and international coordination mechanisms.
• Enhance international coordination between institutions and country missions of international actors where the child is located and in countries of origin on legal frameworks and procedures related to birth registration and certification.
• Promote the involvement of communities in countries of origin to support and enhance the economic, social and psychosocial reintegration of migrant children.
• Include monitoring and evaluation indicators in reintegration plans, following a participative approach.
• Facilitate the participation of children in the return process and during the development of reintegration plans.
• Facilitate implementation of child protection tools and mechanisms to ensure timely access to justice, remedies and protection for children on the move. Strengthen partnerships between migration, border management and child protection stakeholders at the national level for safe identification and referral.
• Promote “one‑step, one‑visit” systems to allow simultaneous birth registration and certification.
• Establish frameworks and procedures to recognize the equivalence of foreign official documents, such as marriage certificates, to ensure birth registration.
• Develop bilateral, regional and transnational cooperation agreements/practices to facilitate the exchange and recognition of identity documents of children on the move and migrant parents among countries of origin, transit and destination.
• Reduce statelessness by adapting national citizenship laws and making them accessible to children on the move.
• Raise awareness among communities and families in countries of origin, transit and destination about birth registration and its implications for social protection and access to services.
• Sensitize national child protection institutions and national authorities involved in border management on the right to family unit and family tracing guidelines.
• Revise and expand the interpretation of family in child protection procedures. Include other trusted members of communities and large families following a culturally sensitive approach allowing unaccompanied and separated children to join relatives and members of the communities of origin who cared for them.
• Promote a whole‑of‑government approach that involves ministries of justice, interior, social affairs, education, and health on protection policy for migrant children design and implementation including birth registration and identification.
• Harmonize and consolidate child protection tools across countries in the region, especially those related to child protection legal frameworks.
• Ensure a child‑rights based approach in case management and non‑discrimination and inclusion principles are respected throughout case management and best interest determination processes. There should be a specific focus on gender, disability and mental health.
• Ensure child protection caseworkers are trained and sensitized on prevention and child‑friendly responses to caring for children on the move survivors of abuse, violence and neglect.
• Build the capacity of stakeholders involved in child protection (e.g. government officials, specialized national authorities, social workers) and on migration, human rights, child protection (legal frameworks and case management guidelines), trafficking and smuggling as well as gender and gender‑based violence.
• Institutionalize a whole‑of‑government/whole‑of‑society approach to cross‑border child protection coordination, involving national institutional actors, CSOs and international actors such as UN agencies.
• Integrate and harmonize national legal frameworks on child rights and child protection regulations as well as bilateral and multilateral agreements on migration and border management.
• Mainstream child protection in cross‑border coordination mechanisms and meetings at national, regional and transnational levels.
• Develop case management coordination mechanisms and guidelines (for instance Standard Operating Procedures) for transnational, regional, national and local coordination. Disseminate this guidance to child protection authorities and law enforcement actors, especially those involved in border management or in direct engagement with children and families.
• Support the establishment of formal or operational bilateral, regional and transnational agreements to cooperate on protection of migrant children.
• Develop and disseminate common tools and standards (e.g. bi‑multilateral memos; notes on legal interpretation, etc.) to ensure a harmonized understanding and application of national and international child protection norms and procedures as well as cultural and customary principles.
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• For more guidance on Child Protection case management for children on the move:
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• For more guidance on Child Protection case management for children on the move:
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• For more guidance on Child Protection case management for children on the move:
• Operational tools on stages of Child Protection case management
• For more guidance on Child Protection case management for children on the move:
• Prioritize individual care plans, based on in‑depth assessments of each case and on a best‑interests procedure offering options that enhance children’s individuality and capabilities.
• Ensure a holistic and protective care environment for children on the move without parental care providing each child with a safe, welcoming and familiar environment where they receive comprehensive health care, adequate nutrition and opportunities for physical, cognitive and emotional development through educational and social activities.
• Promote the use of blended care arrangements, combining family fostering with institutional care options, especially in cases of urgent placement pending a more in‑depth assessment and the identification of a stable foster family.
• Ensure appropriate living conditions in residential care facilities that meet international child protection standards for safe and dignified living, combined with services such as education and health care.
• Prioritize the strengthening of existing national child protection systems including children on the move in their scope, to ensure sustainability.
• Sensitize state actors and child protection actors at subnational level on inclusion of children on the move in existing community‑based child protection mechanisms.
• Promote regular data collection and analysis at transnational, regional and national levels on the reintegration of migrant children. Ensure a focus on the dynamics associated with new attempts to migrate following voluntary return.
• Promote cooperation at national, regional and transnational levels between national and international actors in the field of voluntary return and reintegration.
• Strengthen existing exchanges and practices on intra‑regional and international regular pathways for children on the move. Adapt and develop more inclusive solutions that allow regular migration of marginalized and low‑income children and families.
• Promote child‑friendly border management and migration policies and practices. Promote the development of regular pathways and improved regularization policies for undocumented migrant children and their families.
• Standardize and harmonize national Best Interest Assessment (BIA) and Best Interest Determination (BID) procedures with international child protection guidelines and recommendations, including safe identification and referral, family tracing and sustainable alternative solutions.
• Raising awareness of international and legal frameworks on migration and child protection among migrant populations.
• Support national child protection authorities’ participation and ownership of BID procedures and panels.
• Support existing BID panels to include all available sustainable solutions when deciding a case.
• Develop and implement legal frameworks, tools, and mechanisms for the rapid and systematic appointment of legal guardianship for unaccompanied and separated migrant children. Ensure identification of suitable and trusted guardians, reduce the number of cases per guardian, and monitor case management of guardians.
• Promote the development and implementation of border management procedures child‑rights oriented, following the best interest principle.
• Develop and coordinate monitoring systems on BIAs undertaken by child protection authorities and case management stakeholders involved in the best interest process.
• Train and support peer sensitization of members of CSOs and communities on the identification and referral of migrant children to subnational or national child protection authorities in accordance with international standards on child protection case management.
• Build the capacity of actors involved in migration, protection, voluntary return and reintegration – with a focus on front-line workers – on birth certification procedures in countries of origin, including delays and requirements foreseen by national legislations.
• Where necessary and safe, coordinate with national authorities and/or diplomatic missions of countries of origin to involve trusted members of migrant communities and community leaders in national and cross‑border identification of migrant children and family tracing.
• Develop and strengthen services in transit countries to accompany migrant parents who wish to return to their countries of origin in the process of registering births in the country of origin as part of their reintegration process.
Good Practice – Alternative care – Identification and referral of migrant children to national child protection delegates in Tunisia
In Tunisia, once vulnerable migrant children have been identified, particularly by border officials, they are referred to national child protection authorities or IOM for protection and support. Tunisian child protection delegates assist in the identification of unaccompanied
and separated migrant children and carry out risk assessments. The delegates then refer the children to family judges who, with the support of social workers, decide on alternative placement in cooperation with organizations such as IOM and civil society.
Good Practice – Alternative care – The Alternative care model for migrant, asylum seeking and refugee children and adolescents in Mexico developed by the Mexican National Welfare System and UNICEF
In 2019 UNICEF and the Mexican National Welfare System, Vulnerable Persons Support Unit engaged in a joint effort to end migrant children detention and identify adequate alternative care solutions for migrant, asylum-seeker and refugee children in Mexico. According to the scheme, the migrant child or asylum-seeker is identified and accommodated in a temporary reception centre for maximum 45 days. During this stay a caseworker assess the child’s situation and primary needs to understand what form of alternative care could be more appropriate to the case. An “individual plan” is developed on a case‑by‑case basis. In the temporary reception centre each child is followed by a team composed of educators, psychologists, social workers, lawyers and other operators. The team assists the child and refers the case to specialized professionals (e.g. psychiatrists for children displaying mental issues).
Following analysis during this first temporary accommodation, the team refers the child to long‑term solutions, such as:
• Fostering with extended family
• Fostering with unrelated family
• Residential care in social assistance centres
• Residential care in small groups
• Family reintegration
• Independent living
Good practice – Coordination procedure for identification and referral of children on the move to UN agencies for specific protection in Mauritania
The national Standard Operating Procedures for the determination of the best interests of children on the move in Mauritania foresees a clear referral pathway and attribute specific roles and responsibilities to UN agencies and international organizations active in child protection, according to their different mandates. The Standard Procedures state that:
• Local NGOs should refer cases of unaccompanied and separated children to UN agencies or other international organizations according to the child’s needs to ensure technical and financial support
• UN agencies and organizations should only take on referrals of children whose profiles meet their designated mandates and expertise
• UN agencies and organizations to whom the case has been referred will be responsible for registering the case, assigning a caseworker, and coordinating with the local NGO that first identified the child for further information
• The responsible UN agency or organization is in charge of assessing the child’s situation and collecting information to compile the child’s Best Interests Determination (BID) file.
Good practice – IOM Assisted Voluntary Return And Reintegration (AVRR) for migrant children and cross‑border coordination
According to IOM’s procedure for voluntary return and reintegration, predetermined steps are followed to ensure the best interests of the child once the child has voluntarily expressed his/her will to return to the country of origin:
Step 1 – Family tracing and family assessment in the country of origin: IOM AVRR team in the country of departure and IOM AVRR team in the country of origin collaborate to assess the family’s willingness and capacity to receive and care for the child upon return. Written consent of parent/legal guardian for child’s return to the country of origin is requested at this stage. Proof of the parents’ identity is also required, as well as birth certificates or other official documents confirming the child’s family relationship.
Step 2 – BID administrative or judicial procedure in the country of departure: IOM’s AVRR team in the country of departure coordinates with institutional or administrative actors that conduct the best interest determination process and make a formal decision stating that the return is a viable option in the child’s best interests.
Step 3 – Preparation of the child’s return: an individual reintegration plan is developed according to the child’s wishes and best interests by the IOM AVRR teams in countries of departure and origin. In country of departure IOM AVRR teams, family, parents the legal guardians as well as embassies and consulates of the origin countries coordinate to ensure all needed documentation for the child’s departure, travel and arrival.
Step 4 – Travel: For children under 15 years of age an escort is mandatory and travel is planned only when needed authorizations are received and assistance is arranged. The IOM AVRR team establish contact with relatives in the country of origin beforehand and remain in contact during travel. Members of the AVRR team in the country of departure must accompany children aged 15 to 17 to the airport and through the check. The AVRR teams in the countries of departure and origin must coordinate with the child’s family for pick up at destination.
Step 5 – The child’s reintegration process – the IOM AVRR teams in the country of departure and origin coordinate to implement the individual reintegration plan which facilitates the child’s reintegration at school, vocational trainings and jobs for young migrants, and within his/her family and community. The process of reintegration is closely monitored by caseworkers appointed within the IOM AVRR team in the country of origin.
Good practice – IOM Niger Birth registration for migrant newborn children
In the context of the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, IOM Niger supports foreigner migrant women and parents by ensuring they have access to hospitals and health‑care facilities to give birth. After the baby’s delivery IOM Niger coordinates with national institutions to obtain a birth certificate and to register the baby in the Niger. Once issued, the birth certificate is given to the mother or parents before they return to their country of origin. If the issuance of the birth certificate is delayed for any reason, IOM Niger sends the birth certificate to IOM missions in the migrant parents' countries of origin and they coordinate to ensure that the certificate is delivered to the mother's or parent's residence.
Good practice – IOM and UNHCR cross‑border and transnational referral mechanisms
Two initiatives informed by good practices on transnational referral mechanisms have been developed and implemented by IOM and UNHCR:
IOM – The TACT project aimed to enhance the capacities of the involved countries in the field of protection, assistance and return and reintegration of victims of trafficking also through the development and improvement of national and transnational cooperation mechanisms.
Replicable actions:
• Establishment of a Transnational Referral Mechanism as an operational framework linking different actors from two or more countries involved in identification, referral, assistance, repatriation and monitoring.
• Realization of an online platform providing tools and operational framework for identification of victims of trafficking and their referral.
• Development of a free online directory for Consulates and Embassies with key information on counter trafficking per country and useful contacts for referral.
• Development of a free online repository of key international literature, research and operational tools on counter trafficking for practitioners.
UNHCR – The Regional Safe Spaces Network (RSSN) seeks to improve access to services for survivors of sexual and gender‑based violence, children at risk, people with diverse sexual orientation and gender identity, people with disabilities, indigenous population and other vulnerable individuals at every phase of the displacement cycle throughout the Americas.
Replicable actions:
• Development and sharing of a regional service mapping of multisectoral service providers that provide counselling and referrals across borders.
• Creation of an online service mapping for regional network members that provides updated geographic location of active RSSN partners in different countries.
• Development of a customized regional case management and information management toolkit.
• Creation of self‑assessment and self‑audit tools to measure performance and adjust interventions.
• Organization of regional workshops for RSSN members to ensure training and coordination.
Good practice – Interagency standard operating procedures for the implementation of the Best interests’ determination process for children at risk in Libya
In 2022 IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF cooperated in the elaboration of joint Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure the best interests assessment and determination of vulnerable migrant children, especially for unaccompanied and separated children.
The SOPs compile detailed good practices following international standards on BIA and BID with the aim of establishing an agreed framework and formal interagency process related to the determination of assisted migrant children’s best interests when making durable solutions.
The interagency SOPs are tailored to the Libyan context and foresee specific orientations in line with international standards on child protection regarding:
• Steps and phases of the BID procedure;
• Composition and responsibilities of the BID Panel;
• BID Panel and the decision‑making process;
• A BID simplified procedure for cases of specific risks and need for urgent action.
Good practice – Italian Law N. 47/17 on protection measures for unaccompanied migrant children and the voluntary legal guardianship
In 2017, the Government of Italy approved Law N. 47/17 on "Protection Measures for Unaccompanied Minors," which introduced a new system for appointing legal guardians for unaccompanied migrant children. According to the law, after identifying an unaccompanied migrant child, national authorities should report the case to the relevant judicial authority, which has 48 hours to appoint a guardian.
Before 2017, only civil servants could be appointed legal guardians. This circumstance made it difficult to ensure a case‑by‑case approach and follow up, resulting in huge delays and weakening the effectiveness of child protection measures.
The Law N. 47/17 introduced an alternative system and called the “voluntary legal guardianship”. Private individuals can voluntarily enroll in the programme and be appointed as legal guardians of up to three unaccompanied migrant children. Juvenile courts are responsible for selecting and appointing the voluntary guardians. Before being assigned, they are trained by the competent Regional Ombudsperson for Children. Close monitoring and follow up of the programme is ensured by the National Ombudsperson for Children.
Good practice – Kafala as a form of alternative care in Morocco
In most of Muslim‑majority countries located in the MENA region, the Kafala system allows for the long‑term fostering of orphaned children or children without guardians, in the absence of adoption provisions in national legislative frameworks.
The UNCRC also recognizes Kafala as a form of alternative care. Kafala is often an institution reserved for children who are nationals of the country in which it is requested, but in some cases, such as in Morocco, guidance on Kafala specifically includes the fostering of migrant and refugee children, children seeking asylum, as well as stateless children.
Good practice – Legal guardianship appointment in Egypt
According to law n. 82/2016 on Combating Illegal Migration and Smuggling of Migrants, the Government of Egypt ensures protection services to unaccompanied and separated migrant children during family tracing and legal guardian assignment process. The National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) is automatically appointed as legal guardian and manages the following processes:
1. Registration of complaints and notifications received concerning unaccompanied children of smuggled migrants and securing information in special file for each individual case;
2. Family tracing and legal guardian assignment process;
3. Investigation of families and appointment of legal representatives during prosecution services;
4. Placement of unaccompanied children in national care facilities when family tracing fails;
5. Notifying the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of the Interior when the NCCM determines that the child be returned safely and immediately to their country of origin.
Good practice – Specific indicators of child trafficking ‑ Egypt
The Government of Egypt and UNICEF have identified the following specific child trafficking indicators as guidelines for identification of national and migrant child victims of trafficking:
• Signs that the child was assaulted (physically, mentally or sexually)
• The employer / the person responsible for the child keeps the child’s official documents
• The child is forced to work for long hours or work in dangerous vocations/industries
• The child earns low or no pay
• The child does not go to school or drops out
• The child lives in his/her workplace or with their employer
• The child lives in large groups/crowded in very limited areas
• The child feels frightened in general and does not usually trust the police
• The child’s inability to talk when they are unaccompanied
• The child works in prostitution or is forced to work in the commercial sex industry
• Child marriage
• Begging or committing minor offences like picking pockets or any other illegal activities
Good practice – The Government of Mauritania formal foster family system
The Government of Mauritania and UN agencies have established tools and procedures to ensure migrant children access to temporary foster care. Based on the principle of non‑discrimination, the mechanism is accessible to national and migrant unaccompanied and separated children. Host families are identified by partner CSOs who produce a first evaluation report that is presented to the joint evaluation committee composed by child protection institutional actors, representatives from local CSOs, and representatives from UN agencies such as IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF.
The selected families are supported technically and economically to ensure the well‑being, development, education, and living conditions of the child.
Good practice – The Standard Operating Procedures for the Protection and Assistance of Child Asylum‑Seekers, Refugees and Victims of Migrant Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons in Egypt.
In 2020, the Government of Egypt, in collaboration with UNICEF, developed a set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the protection of migrant children in the country, providing specific guidance for the protection of national and foreign trafficked and smuggled children.
The tool outlines a national pathway for case management, ensuring respect for their rights and providing specific care and protection. The SOPs promote coordination between national authorities, international organizations and CSOs.
The SOPs cover the different stages of child protection case management, focusing on access to services and alternative care solutions. The procedures emphasize the importance of early identification of child victims of trafficking and provide general indicators for the identification of victims of trafficking and specific indicators for the identification of child victims of trafficking.
Good practice – The West African Network (WAN or RAO) for protection of children on the move within ECOWAS countries
In 2005 the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and its partners in the West African region established the West African Network (WAN) or Reseau de Afrique de l’Ouest (RAO), a network aimed to ensure the protection of children on the move within the ECOWAS countries and Mauritania.
The WAN is a transnational mechanism for the protection of children on the move in the subregion, promoting cooperation in the early identification, best interest assessment and referral of migrant children at risk. The WAN provides emergency responses to medium‑ and long‑term interventions such as community and family support for child reintegration and personal development projects.
These actions are carried out thanks to the cooperation between the child protection systems of the ECOWAS members and Mauritania. The network brings together institutional and civil society actors to strengthen regional cooperation for the protection of vulnerable migrant children and to promote the adoption of sustainable reintegration.
Good practice – The foster care system for unaccompanied and separated migrant children developed by UN agencies and the Government of Mauritania
After conducting a feasibility study on the compatibility of foster care for unaccompanied and separated migrant children and the national child protection system, the Government of Mauritania in collaboration with UN agencies have established tools and procedures to ensure migrant children access to temporary foster care. Based on the principle of non‑discrimination, the mechanism is accessible to national and migrant unaccompanied and separated children. Host families are identified by partner CSOs which conduct a first evaluation and presented it to the joint evaluation committee. The committee is composed of child protection institutional actors, representatives from local CSOs, and representatives from UN agencies such as IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF. The committee is responsible for evaluating the proposal according to predetermined and agreed upon criteria, voting, or requesting further information.
The selected families are supported technically and economically to ensure the well‑being, development, education, and living conditions of the child. Families agree to host an unaccompanied migrant for 6 months or 12 to 24 months in exceptional cases. These exceptional cases may include: when family tracing is delayed, when children are identified as victims of trafficking, when teens are about to turn 18, when teens are enrolled in vocational trainings and internships.
The national Ministry of Social Affairs, Children and the Family supported by international child protection actors is currently reinforcing the existent dual system of institutional and family‑based care. In line with the National child protection strategy and the Child Protection Code, the Ministry is drafting a decree regulating the status of temporary foster families for vulnerable children.
Good practice – Thematic coordination Groups for vulnerable migrants’ protection in Morocco
The GTP (Groupes Thematique Protection) are joint coordination working groups established byUNHCR with the collaboration of international and local civil society organizations working on the protection of vulnerable migrants, including children on the move in Morocco. The GTP was initially established in Oujda, Tangier and Casablanca, and was duplicated in the cities of Fes‑Meknes, Marrakech and Beni Mellal in response to new migration trends. The GTPs meet monthly to discuss migration trends, exchange information, discuss the needs of vulnerable migrants like children on the move and victims of trafficking, as well as providing safe referral services. In addition to CSOs, the Moroccan Organization for Human Rights, and UNHCR the GTPs invite IOM, UNICEF and local child protection authorities to advise and coordinate on specific topics. GTPs also periodically organize activities such as trainings, awareness sessions, and round tables on specific issues related to migrant protection involving local institutional actors.
SMUGGLING AND CHILD SMUGGLING
According to the United Nations Protocol Against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air, smuggling is “the procurement, in order to obtain, directly or indirectly, a financial or other material benefit, of the illegal entry of a person into a State Party of which the person is not a national or a permanent resident.” Smuggling and trafficking are different crimes, although they can be confused. Exploitation can occur during the migration journey of an adult or a child. In some cases, this shift can transform smuggling into trafficking.
The three main migratory routes passing through North African countries are also affected by smuggling. Smuggled migrants face extremely high risks of abuse, exploitation and even death along the main migratory routes from West Africa to North Africa. Children on the move are some of the most vulnerable migrants smuggled through North Africa. According to UNODC, in 2020, 19 per cent of the people smuggled along this route were children, of whom 5 per cent accompanied and 14 per cent unaccompanied.
The dynamics associated with irregular migration and smuggling pose risks to children on the move along migratory routes, exposing them to serious violations of their rights. This confirms the need for a coordinated and consistent response to the protection of children affected by smuggling, and for States and stakeholders to provide appropriate assistance, based on the principle of the best interests of the child.
Consent and Assent in the context of case management
Smuggling and Child Smuggling
Click to view actors and responsibilities
Consent and Assent in the context of case management
BEST INTERESTS DETERMINATION
FAMILY TRACING AND ASSESSMENT
IDENTIFICATION AND REGISTRATION
PLAN IMPLEMENTATION AND FOLLOW UP
THE BEST INTERESTS ASSESSMENT
• Lack of legal guardianship
• Lack of shelter
• Limited access to services (education, legal and administrative, etc.)
• Negligence
• Psychological concerns linked to abandonment, abuse or violence
• Post‑traumatic stress disorder
• Chronic diseases
• Psychiatric conditions
• Infectious illnesses
• Sexual exploitation
• Sexual abuse
• Sexual violence
• Unwanted pregnancies
• Child marriage
© IOM and UNICEF jointly roll out the child protection operational note in a 3-day training in Rabat, Morocco – June 2025