Thousands of refugee children are missing
According to Europol's information service, more than 10 000 refugee children have gone missing since the recent refugee crisis began. In a statement, Europol chief of staff Brian Donald has said that 5 000 children have gone missing in Italy alone and about 1 000 in Sweden. At the same time, it is estimated that 27% of those who entered Europe because of the refugee crisis are children. They are in great danger of being exploited and trafficked by organised crime networks and even children who manage to escape are confronted with the need to survive(1).
In view of the above, will the Commission say:
— Is it aware of this tragic situation that puts thousands of children directly at risk?
— What kind of actions will it take to reduce the risks for refugee children?
(1) http://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jan/30/fears-for-missing-child-refugees
2 February 2016