The Catholic Response to Unaccompanied and Separated Children in the Context of Migration

Georgetown University Collaborative on Global Children's Issues

This webinar explored the role of the Catholic Church in responding to children who are migrating alone or who are at risk of or have been separated from their families in the context of migration. 

  • How does Catholic social teaching inform faith communities’ responses to unaccompanied and separated children in the context of migration?
  • How do Catholic principles and practices interact with government policies and public perceptions related to immigration?

Background: 
 

The Christian faith began with a vulnerable child born to a displaced mother facing a range of threats. Since then, Christian communities have interacted with children and families in precarious situations. Catholic organizations have often been on the front lines offering assistance to migrants and refugees all over the world.There are now more children on the move than ever before–fleeing violence, climate disasters, and poverty–and seeking safety and protection within and across borders. Currently, nearly 40% of the 110 million displaced persons worldwide are under the age of 18. Alarming numbers of children are moving alone.


This webinar was hosted as part of the forum on Faith and the Family: Propagating and Preventing Child-Family Separation across Time and Context is convened by Catholic Relief Services and Georgetown University’s Collaborative on Global Children’s Issues, in coordination with the Changing the Way We Care initiative and strategic partners. English, French, and Spanish interpretation are available.