FOLLOWING THE ROUTE OF MIGRANT CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS FROM EL SALVADOR Did you know that migration of children and adolescents from El Salvador has increased in the last years? More than half (55%) travel without the company of an adult, and on their way, they are exposed to different kinds of violence: physical and sexual, human trafficking, exploitation and robbery. Moreover, the borders are constantly watched and children and adolescents are likely to be detained and returned to their countries of origin.
This is why it is important for you to know the risks of migrating and how to act in case you have to return.
Luis, do you know why children and adolescents choose to migrate?
Yes, Gabriela, due to a lack of educational and job opportunities, poverty and gang violence.
They say that it is better to travel undocumented, because if you get caught with your documents they will know where you are from. Is that true?
Is it true that if women take young children with them it is easier to enter the United states?
Amalia, tell us which are the real conditions fo the route. What can happen on the way?
That is wrong. Some people stay en shelters and reception camps for months, waiting for their nationality to be confirmed.
Neither do migration policies exist which facilitate the entry to the United States for young children.
There are many dangers.You can feel exhausted, hungry, cold, get ill or spend days without sleeping. Moreover, you are exposed to networks for human trafficking, organ trafficking, exploitation, and physical and/or sexual violence.