All articles tagged with #unaccompanied children
The Department of Homeland Security is offering unaccompanied children in the immigration system a 'voluntary' return option with a $2,500 incentive, raising concerns among legal experts about children waiving their rights and potential exploitation, amid unverified reports of coercive practices.
The Trump administration attempted to deport up to 600 unaccompanied migrant children to Guatemala during a holiday weekend, prompting legal action that temporarily halted the removals. The incident raised concerns about violations of protections under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act, and highlighted ongoing political and legal controversies surrounding immigration policies, Trump's health, and public health leadership. The situation underscores tensions between law enforcement actions and legal safeguards for vulnerable populations.
A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from deporting 10 unaccompanied Guatemalan children, citing potential violations of US laws and concerns over their safety if returned to Guatemala. The order halts deportations for 14 days pending a hearing, amid legal challenges from advocacy groups who argue the removals could expose children to harm.
South African border officials intercepted over 400 young children from Zimbabwe who were traveling unaccompanied on buses, suspecting them of being trafficked. However, an organization representing foreign nationals in South Africa suggests that the children were likely visiting their parents who work in South Africa for the end-of-year holidays. The buses were sent back to Zimbabwe. South Africa has seen a significant influx of Zimbabweans over the years due to economic turmoil in their home country.
A 17-year-old migrant boy from Honduras died in the custody of a Florida facility sheltering unaccompanied minors for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement. The Honduran government has requested an investigation into the case. The facility is run by the Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services, Inc. and is regulated by the federal Office of Refugee Resettlement. The cause of death is under investigation, and due to privacy and safety reasons, ORR cannot share further information on individual cases of children who have been in their care.