Improving the reception of unaccompanied migrant girls

Abstract

Unaccompanied migrant girls and adolescents detected in Europe are characterized by a greater vulnerability than boys, caused by the intersection of three factors: being a woman, a minor and a migrant. International organizations point out the difficulties in addressing their specific needs. The objective of this research is to incorporate the gender perspective into the various phases of residential care of these migrant minors in social services for children and adolescents. Using focus groups with professionals who have intervened with these young women, their institutional reception itinerary is analyzed and recommendations for its improvement are proposed. The analysis of the results concludes that the greatest difficulties are found in detection and first care, as well as in the frequent escapes from the centers and in their transition to adulthood. At the same time, the study highlights the need for improvement and innovation in the profiles of the professionals involved in the care of these young women, for whom, moreover, the families, whether in origin or destination, can act as a protective or risk factor.