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UNICEF claimed that before winter approaches, Europe has a opportunity to protect and care the tens of thousands of children seeking refuge. Over 106,000 children have claimed asylum with the first half of 2015. Many refugees and migrant children in Europe are living in inadequate conditions, where they are at risk of violence, exploitation and abuse.
The European Union should take action, including putting in a place a number of immediate safeguards for children and their families:
- Safe, child-friendly reception facilities as children arrive, with access to health care, psycho-social support, recreation and schooling.
- More resettlement places across Europe and humanitarian visas for children and their families. The processing of asylum cases should be timely, and always focus on the best interests of the children.
- Stronger commitment to resettlement of refugees from countries in conflict to reduce the likelihood that refugees resort to unsafe routes and people smuggling.
- Stepped-up search and rescue operations at sea and on land.
- Speeding up family reunification programmes for separated and unaccompanied children.
- Adequate numbers of trained child welfare specialists to care for and counsel children and families.
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Source & Copyright: UNICEF