Statement on Impact on Children of New Law in Hungary – Attributed to UNICEF Regional Director and Special Coordinator for the Refugee and Migrant Crisis in Europe, Afshan Khan

NEW YORK (March 9, 2017) – "UNICEF is alarmed by the adoption of a new law in Hungary that foresees the mandatory detention of refugee and migrant children over 14 years of age. We appeal to the President to treat all children as children first and foremost, before signing this new law.

“Detaining refugee and migrant children fleeing violence and persecution and seeking a better life is traumatic. It effectively criminalizes children and robs them of their rights such as education. The impact of this on any child, no matter their age, can last a lifetime.

“We trust that Hungary will uphold its commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and its adherence to EU and international laws. UNICEF stands ready to support the government of Hungary in these efforts.”

About UNICEF
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information, contact:
Sophie Aziakou, U.S. Fund for UNICEF, 917.720.1397, saziakou@unicefusa.org