Children on the Move
Around the world, millions of children are forced to leave their homes every year. Some flee war and persecution; others are displaced by poverty, oppression, or the devastating effects of the climate emergency.
The number of migrant children – children who are living a life on the move – is increasing. Over the past 10 years, the number of children forcibly displaced has doubled. Unicef estimates that there are 35.5 million child migrants globally.
Many children move across borders or into new communities without the protection of a parent or caregiver. These children face extraordinary risks. They are more vulnerable to violence, exploitation, trafficking, abuse, and the loss of education and childhood itself.
Ensuring the rights, safety, and dignity of Children on the Move is one of the most important child protection challenges of our time. Children on the Move need more than shelter – they need safety, stability, and a chance to thrive.
By working together, we can ensure:
- Protection from violence and exploitation.
- Access to education, health, and psychosocial support.
- Family- and community-based care as the first choice.
- Recognition of children’s voices and rights in decisions that affect them
Our Response
Family for Every Child is working with our global alliance of local civil society organisations to support Children on the Move, strengthen their protection and influence policy.
Developing Resources for Practitioners
We are creating practical tools – such as our Children on the Move toolkit – to help practitioners respond to the unique needs of displaced children. These resources draw on the lived experience of local organisations already supporting children on the frontline.
Sharing Knowledge and Best Practice
Through research and knowledge exchange, we connect child protection actors worldwide. By sharing case studies, strategies, and local innovations, we are building a stronger, more informed response to the challenges faced by Children on the Move.
Raising Awareness and Advocacy
We campaign to raise global awareness about Children on the Move and the urgent need for better protection. We call on governments, international agencies, and civil society to recognise the rights of these children and to integrate family and community-based care into all migration and child protection policies.
