Summaries

This Ad Hoc Query (AHQ) summary examines so-called separated children, i.e. children who arrive in the EU with adults other than their parents or legal guardians. The summary describes how the legislation and practices of different EU countries recognize this group, when and how accompanying adults can be officially designated as representatives or guardians of the child, and what arrangements are in place in different countries to maintain or monitor the relationship between children and the adults accompanying them. In addition, the publication highlights key differences between countries, shortcomings in data and monitoring, and how protection needs and the principle of the best interests of the child are taken into account, particularly in light of the implementation of the new EU Pact on Migration and Asylum.