In 2024, Greece has seen over 3,000 unaccompanied minors arrive, more than double last year’s figure of 1,409, according to the UNHCR.
Aid groups warn of a “children’s emergency,” with hundreds of minors on islands like Samos, Leros, and Kos left without shelter, clothing, or basic necessities.
NGOs are urging the government to implement emergency measures to provide safe shelters for the 1,500 unaccompanied minors reportedly living without support. Many children spend weeks in confined “safe areas” before being transferred to proper facilities, highlighting delays in care.
The surge is attributed to conflicts in the Middle East and a new migration route from Libya to Crete. Migration Minister Nikos Panagiotopoulos predicts the crisis will persist due to ongoing wars and climate displacement.
Despite efforts like the National Guardianship Project and emergency response mechanisms, organizations like Save the Children criticize the lack of safe migration channels, inadequate medical care, and poor infrastructure, leaving vulnerable children at high risk.
