Image: SEVERINE KPOTI (Mission Lifeline)
However, this is an incomplete figure because it does not take into account the child refugees from Ukraine and unaccompanied child migrants who entered Italy via land borders – mainly via the Balkan route, according to UNICEF. “These are children and young people, often fleeing conflict and violence, trying to reach Europe – sometimes with a stopover in Italy, sometimes going on to other countries to meet family members or acquaintances – in search of safety and decent living conditions,” said UNICEF in a report.
“Many voyages do not end well, as shown by the recent shipwrecks off Calabria in February and a few days ago off Greece. On the central Mediterranean route alone – which remains one of the most dangerous – it is estimated that more than 21,000 people have died since 2014, more than 1,000 this year alone, including many children,” the report said.
Underage women at risk of exploitation and violence
Children and women are among the groups most vulnerable to exploitation and violence – including gender-based violence – at all stages of migration. “In view of the conflicts, crises and climate catastrophes affecting many of the most important countries of origin, these numbers are likely to increase in the coming months,” said the UN Children’s Fund.
Although Italy has a solid legal framework for the protection of single children and young people, there are still gaps and regional differences in access to services, education and training, and in the processes of hearing migrant and refugee children, UNICEF criticizes.
Source: Nachrichten
