Protecting the Human Rights of Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors

Each year, approximately 8,000 immigrant children under the age of 18 enter the United States without a parent, guardian, or legal documents. Without adequate access to legal resources or social services, many of these children will be returned to dangerous situations in their home countries. This paper argues that to protect the human rights of each child, it is critical to understand their circumstances and to determine their eligibility for legal relief. It demonstrates that social workers with an expertise in cross-cultural communication and advocating for the vulnerable can provide a critical voice for these children by uncovering their stories and fighting for their best interests.