Panel: NAVIGATING TOMORROW. Understanding and Addressing the Daily Struggles of Teenage Refugees in Europe

Abstract

Children and teenagers globally are compelled to flee their homes due to war, persecution, and political unrest (Lustig et al., 2004). Between 2010 and 2020, Europe received 314,315 asylum applications from minors who arrived unaccompanied (European Statistical Office, 2021).

Family separation inflicts inevitable negative effects on teenage refugees, but the harsh reality of war often leaves them no choice but to leave. Beyond the challenges of the journey, their struggle persists upon reaching Europe, facing social isolation, school system changes, language barriers, and emotional deprivation.

This panel aims to spotlight the day-to-day challenges of the teenage refugee generation in Europe, emphasizing the unique circumstances post-separation. It seeks to unravel their intricate interactions within families and society, shedding light on the multifaceted factors shaping their social, educational, and vocational development in Europe. The primary focus is on Germany, but contributions comparing the daily struggles of teenagers in Germany with those across Europe are welcomed. We invite insights that can inform policies, interventions, and a collective understanding of the nuanced experiences of these young minds. Keywords: family, teenagers, unaccompanied, refugee, Germany, integration.

in-person event