New study reveals how Europe’s regions protect unaccompanied migrant and refugee children

Milieu Consulting’s latest analysis—commissioned by the European Committee of the Regions—shows how four territories (the Canary Islands, Bouches-du-Rhône, Athens and Łódź) are turning child-protection principles into concrete action. The report explains that almost 40 000 unaccompanied children applied for protection in the EU last year while services already support an estimated 100 000 young people. With minors now representing nearly a quarter of all EU asylum applicants, the study argues that child-centred, well-resourced responses are no longer optional but urgent.

Across the case studies, local authorities demonstrate that rapid foster-care pathways reduce the time children spend in emergency accommodation, youth councils strengthen integration policies by giving young people a direct voice, and integrated reception hubs streamline health, education and legal services. The analysis also highlights how cross-border knowledge-sharing allows regions to replicate proven practices and avoid duplication of effort, creating a virtuous circle that benefits both newcomers and host communities. Milieu Consulting invites policymakers, practitioners and civil-society actors to join the conversation on safeguarding and empowering unaccompanied children—so every young person has the chance to thrive.

Access the resources

• Listen: concise overview from our colleague Julia on EURadio (interview in French)

• Read the full report

• Browse the leaflet