The Lives of Unaccompanied Refugee Minors during their Transit Stay in Greece

Abstract

This article explores daily threats in the lives of unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs) in Greece. The aim is to stimulate debate and understanding in the context of growing forced migration. Our observations, arguments, and conclusions are primarily informed by critical discussion of politics, policies, and legislation of the European Union, Greece, and international treaties on human rights. Our analysis also draws upon impressions from site visits and interviews with social workers at urban shelters and supervised apartments of semi-independent living (SILs) on the Greek mainland. Aspects related to the social quality of URMs’ daily circumstances include quality of accommodation, presence of contact persons, sense of safety and security, and social inclusion. Vulnerabilities related to the insecurities of temporary transit status are central. The availability of formal and informal services providing care, protection, recovery, education, sports, and well-being is essential. The social quality perspective frames our analysis and interpretation.