The devastating events throughout 2023 have led to increased fatalities, widespread displacement of families, and inflicted severe psychological trauma on hundreds of thousands of children.
Despite the pressing nature of the issue, minimal progress has been made in 2023 concerning the shortcomings of some of the European states towards refugee and migrant children.
In 2023, Poland stands as a key refuge for Ukrainian refugees fleeing the conflict, particularly the significant influx of children seeking safety and stability.
This is while there are persistent challenges in addressing educational and psychological needs of the refugees in Poland. Therefore, a collaborative and sustained approach involving NGOs, governments, and international entities is imperative to ensure the continued protection and well-being of Ukrainian refugee children in Poland.
Similarly, migrant children in Belgium continue to encounter significant challenges within the country as they reside in either detention or reception centers.
These conditions profoundly impact their fundamental rights to safety, education, and family unity. Belgium’s failure to meet its international obligations, particularly concerning the detention of children, has a detrimental effect on their well-being.