In two reports following her visits to the Czech and Slovak Republics, published on Wednesday 13 July, the Council of Europe’s Special Representative on Migration and Refugees commends the effectiveness of the measures put in place by these two countries to deal urgently with the influx of people fleeing Ukraine, which she suggests should be complemented by the introduction of a more comprehensive and systematic assessment of the vulnerabilities of people with special needs, including unaccompanied minors.
Referring to the “Council of Europe Action Plan on protecting vulnerable persons in the context of migration and asylum in Europe”, Leyla Kayacik proposes to the two countries concerned additional support directed towards the relevant authorities, in cooperation with other international organisations such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This support is aimed at combating trafficking in human beings (including children), ensuring the safety of women in shelters and preventing gender-based violence.
In addition, the Special Representative offers the Council of Europe’s expertise in counselling and aftercare, linguistic integration of adults and their access to the labour market.
With regard to unaccompanied minors, she proposes to help countries in identifying them, welcoming them and appointing guardians.
Mrs Kayacik visited the Slovak Republic from 2 to 4 May and the Czech Republic from 4 to 6 May.
Link to the report on the Czech Republic: https://aeur.eu/f/2nv
Link to the report on the Slovak Republic: https://aeur.eu/f/2nw (Original version in French by Véronique Leblanc)