News Item

Monitoring returns involving children

A workshop on 3 December looked at how to ensure the best interests of the child when monitoring forced returns that involve children. The International Centre for Migration Policy Development, the European Border and Coast Guard Agency and FRA jointly organised the online workshop. It was attended by 50 people from 21 different Member States.

The presentations focused on the legal framework as well as good practices from practitioners in Member States. Some of the discussions related to best interests of the child throughout the return process, the right to information, limitations to the use of force and the need for further guidance and training. A checklist on monitoring returns where children are present will be developed as a follow-up to the workshop.