Ensuring the protection of unaccompanied and separated children in the context of return or transfer to “safe third countries”

In recent years, several countries have either entered or are seeking to enter into bilateral agreements to transfer asylum seekers to third countries for the purpose of adjudicating their claims for international protection. These agreements, which are often referred to as “Asylum Cooperative Agreements” or “Safe Third Country Agreements,” pose critical implications for the safety, well-being, and best interests of unaccompanied and separated children as well as countries’ compliance with international, regional, and domestic law.

What are these agreements and how do they impact protections for unaccompanied children?

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