The Invisible Unaccompanied Children: A Report on the Protection for All Minors Program

Since August 2022, the Protection for All Minors program has been a lifeline for unaccompanied and separated children in Greece. Implemented by INTERSOS Hellas in collaboration with the Network for Children’s Rights, the program provides comprehensive psychosocial, legal, and social support to minors living in precarious conditions or outside formal shelters. Supervised by the National Emergency Response Mechanism (NERM) and the General Secretariat for Vulnerable Citizens and Institutional Protection, the initiative aims to ensure the safety, dignity, and social integration of these vulnerable children.

Unaccompanied children in Greece represent a particularly vulnerable group. Often living in precarious conditions without a protective network, they are exposed to risks such as exploitation and trafficking. The “Protection for All Minors” program addresses this gap by providing comprehensive psychosocial, legal, and social support services.

1…Key Actions:

1 Urban Safe Space Creation: A safe haven in central Athens offers vital services, including legal counseling, psychosocial support, food, and clothing. This initiative encourages children to leave unsafe environments and transition to safer housing solutions.

2. The “Attendant” Role: Professionals serve as key points of contact for the minors, assessing their individual needs and creating personalized action plans to address

3. Collaboration with NERM: Through coordinated efforts with the National Emergency Response Mechanism, the program identifies children in need and facilitates their safe transfer to emergency shelters.

4. Support for Rural Communities: For children living outside Athens, the program ensures service continuity via video calls and partnerships with local social service agencies.

From the begining of the implementation until August 2024, the program has supported:

• 1,514 minors supported: 1,091 referred by NERM, 410 identified in Regional Asylum Offices, and 13 self-referred.

• 2,541 sessions conducted by a multidisciplinary team for comprehensive support.

• 99 minors housed safely in formal shelter facilities.
• Demographics: 98% boys, mostly aged 15-18, with the majority originating from Egypt, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
•5.6% additional vulnerabilities: Including severe medical and psychological conditions or exposure to trafficking risks

Our work is not without challenges. Many children refuse to enter shelter facilities, opting instead for independence or seeking employment to support their families. Delays in asylum procedures and the lack of protocols for guardianship are additional obstacles that require resolution.

The Protection for All Minors program has significantly improved the safety and well-being of unaccompanied children in Greece. However, the persistent high numbers of minors in precarious conditions underline the urgent need for expanded services. By increasing resources and staff, the program can offer more personalized and consistent support, guiding children toward safety and a brighter future.
INTERSOS Hellas remains committed to safeguarding the rights of these children, and we invite the broader community to join us in creating a protective and inclusive environment for all. Together, we can ensure that no child is left invisible.

The “Protection for All Minors” program highlights the importance of collective action in protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. Through strengthened collaboration, improved asylum processes, and preparation for children’s transition to adulthood, we can build a safer future for these children.

INTERSOS Hellas calls on society, institutions, and citizens to support its mission. Because no child should remain invisible.