Irregular migration: more than 20,000 unaccompanied children expected to arrive in Europe by 2025

Unaccompanied minors represent 67% of children arriving in Europe via mixed migration routes in 2025. In a report published Wednesday, October 7, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and UNICEF warn of the growing vulnerability of these young migrants.

Of the 31,100 children who arrived in Europe last year via mixed migration routes, 20,800 made the journey without a parent or legal guardian. This proportion is significantly higher than in 2024, when unaccompanied minors represented 51% of child arrivals.

The data relates in particular to Bulgaria, Cyprus, Spain, Greece, Italy and Malta, destination countries for many migrants using these routes.

A worrying increase despite the decrease in arrivals

The report highlights a contrast: the total number of children arriving in Europe has decreased by 25% compared to 2024, while the proportion of unaccompanied minors has increased sharply.

This development raises concerns about the conditions under which these children undertake their migratory journey, often without the protection of a responsible adult.

The IOM, UNHCR, and UNICEF warn of the multiple dangers these young people face on migration routes. Among the identified risks are smuggling networks, violence, exploitation, and disappearances.

Faced with this situation, the three UN organizations stress the need to strengthen the protection of migrant children, especially those travelling alone, in order to prevent abuse and guarantee their safety throughout their journey.