The Canary Islands are currently home to over 5,000 migrants under the age of 18 in the protected care of the regional government. According to the Ministry of Social Welfare, 1,614 of these young people will come of age this year and will be faced with some crucial decisions about their future. Francisco Candil, the Deputy Minister, elaborates on the two main paths these young adults face: continuing their migration journey or staying in the Canary Islands.
Upon turning 18, the government's guardianship ends, and these young adults are free to make their own choices. Many opt to continue their migration journey, seeking out relatives, friends, or other contacts elsewhere in Spain or Europe.
Candil explains that organisations involved often establish prior contact with these connections to ensure a smooth transition. These efforts include arranging and financing travel, as well as helping to secure employment opportunities.
On the other hand, a portion of these young adults choose to remain in the Canary Islands. Some are engaged in studies or vocational training they wish to complete, while others hope to find employment locally. The regional government is actively working to enhance resources and support for those who decide to stay, given the strain on the system due to the high number of protected people.
The Youth Directorate oversees programs for them, aiming to boost educational and employment opportunities through European social funds. Agreements with business associations and companies help create internships and job placements, particularly in sectors where local workers are scarce, such as construction, social services, and primary industries.
The number of minor migrants fluctuates as they reach adulthood. Recently, the total number of minors in care dropped slightly from 5,500 to around 5,400, but new arrivals continue to affect these figures. For example, the recent arrival of a boat carrying 30 minors who are pending age verification.
Additionally, approximately 1,080 young migrants from Mali are seeking asylum or refugee status due to ongoing conflict in their homeland. The regional government, in collaboration with UNHCR, is working diligently to address their needs in a timely manner.
As these young adults face pivotal decisions about their futures, the Canary Islands continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with providing care and support to a significant population of minor migrants.
