Increasing numbers of unaccompanied minors are taking the irregular migration path, many under pressure from families to find work and send money home. Most of the minors from Central America, aged between 10 and 17, are making the journey alone to join one or both parents who are already in the United States. All unaccompanied minors, regardless of their age are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation; their basic rights aren't always observed. For most, the migration experience is a traumatizing one. And for those that do not reach their final destination, it is also a frustrating one.

The IOM-managed programme "Return and Reintegration of Unaccompanied Migrant Children and Adolescents" funded by the US State Department Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM), brought together youngsters from all over the country who had returned to El Salvador for a first meeting.

For some it was pure joy, for others an experience fraught with anxiety. But in all cases, the smiles marked the two encounters in the capital San Salvador.

"I wanted to know how others managed the trip, and if they were scared," said a 9-year-old, as his curious eyes seemed to open even wider.

The children, aged between 5 and 17, migrated without adult supervision and irregularly to the United States and were returned to El Salvador.

In that first meeting, the participants listened to a lecture on the risks of irregular migration given by IOM's Programme Coordinator, Cecilia Ramírez.

"It was very rewarding for all of the IOM staff to meet the children and to hear their stories, needs and concerns," said Ramírez.

The youngsters shared their personal experiences on their attempt to cross into the United States, while their parents expressed their joy at having their children back home.

After the lecture, they watched movies and did some shopping, thanks to a bonus provided by the programnme.

At the second meeting, although they had already met, the participants were nervous because they were going to receive a thorough medical examination; in many cases it was the first time that the patients had received blood and vision tests.

"I have had a headache for a long time, and I also have stomach aches. I think it is because of the seven days I walked through the desert," expressed a young girl.

And her own diagnosis wasn't quite off; the medical exams showed that she had intestinal parasites and anemia, but that she didn't require glasses.

After the check-up, the participants received the medicines needed and those who required glasses were fitted with the frames of their choice.

To prepare the youngsters for a better future in their country, the programme provides support to attend English language training and computer classes in locations close to their communities.

The programme is supported by the Salvadoran Institute for the Holistic Development of Children (ISNA, by its acronym in Spanish), the General Directorate for Migration and Foreigners, and the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Education.

"In El Salvador this IOM programme has assisted 35 minors so far, but we are carrying out field visits to determine if there are other returned children or adolescents in need of assistance," added Ramírez.

According to official figures at the end of July 2010, a total of 451 minors had been returned to El Salvador by land and another 120 by air.

For further information please contact:

Yulissa Guevara
IOM El Salvador
Tel: (503) 2521 0500, Ext. 27
E-mail: pressiomsansalvador@oim.int