In this report, the Special Rapporteur noted that children were disproportionately represented among migrants who were forcibly displaced. The Special Rapporteur also observed the frequent presence of children in detention in all the countries visited. In some instances, unaccompanied children in detention slept alongside adults. He noted that the detention of children can have long-term psychological consequences.
The Special Rapporteur recommended that rights-based alternatives to detention be put in place and completely end immigration detention of children and families. Detention should be a measure of last resort. Additionally, special safeguards should be in place for the return of unaccompanied children. The Special Rapporteur further stated that human rights should be a cross-cutting issue, and states should consider raising issues such as the "development and implementation of rights-based alternatives to detention, especially for children and families with children"... and "the effective protection of the human rights of vulnerable groups, such as unaccompanied children, families with children, persons with disabilities and elderly migrants."
The present report outlines the main activities undertaken by the Special Rapporteur on the human rights of migrants during the reporting period since his last report to the General Assembly. The thematic section of the report outlines proposals for the development of the global compact on migration, in particular with a view to ensuring that human rights are effectively included and mainstreamed therein. The report underlines the importance of taking a long-term strategic approach in developing the global compact for accessible, regular, safe and affordable mobility policies and practices which will better place States to respond to the significant demographic, economic, social, political and cultural challenges that lie ahead.
