UNICEF USA Statement on Biden Administration Regional Migration and Family Reunification Policy Changes

NEW YORK (February 2, 2021) – UNICEF USA welcomes the executive actions announced today by the Biden Administration to improve immigration practices and keep families together, while addressing the root causes of forced migration. Governments must prioritize the best interests of children in immigration and child protection systems. Efforts that uphold children's rights while addressing the root causes for migration are critical to ensuring that every child, regardless of migration status, can survive and thrive. As the United States Government and other regional actors work to strengthen asylum and child protection systems, UNICEF USA looks forward to working with the Government to improve systems for migrant and refugee children, including through the rescission of policies that prevent migrant and asylum-seeking children from accessing safety and protection in the United States.

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About UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to pursue a more equitable world for every child. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.

UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information, contact
Erica Vogel, UNICEF USA, 212.922.2480, evogel@unicefusa.org

Gabby Arias, UNICEF USA, 917.720.1306, garias@unicefusa.org