In 2011, Appleseed Mexico and the Appleseed Network released a groundbreaking report entitled “Children at the Border: The Screening and Protection and Repatriation of Unaccompanied Mexican Minors,”(Full Report) detailing policy and operation problems with the treatment of Mexican unaccompanied children (UACs) at the U.S-Mexico border. The binational report had a significant impact and received wide acceptance in the community focused on the care and protection of unaccompanied Mexican minors.
Unfortunately, over a decade later, major problems continue and Mexican UACs are still in need of significantly more support and protections. Critically, both the U.S. and Mexican governments have failed to follow enacted laws and policies regarding UACs. To address these issues, the Appleseed Network and Appleseed Mexico have published an updated report, which takes a hard look at the situation and policies on both sides of the border and offers a comprehensive set of solutions to improve treatment of Mexican UACs.
The updated 2024 recommendations for Appleseed Mexico’s “Children at the Border” report focus on improving the treatment of Mexican Unaccompanied Children (UACs) at the U.S.-Mexico border. Key findings highlight deficiencies in current practices, such as inadequate training for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel, unsuitable facilities for holding children, and insufficient communication with Mexican authorities. Recommendations include transferring TVPRA screening responsibilities to USCIS, improving care and facilities, providing free legal representation, and enhancing data tracking and reporting. These changes aim to align U.S. practices with child protection principles and ensure better outcomes for UACs.
