Number: RL33896
Title: Unaccompanied Alien Children: Policies and Issues
Authors: Chad C. Haddal, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: The debate over UAC policy has polarized in recent years between two camps: child welfare advocates arguing that the UAC are largely akin to refugees by being victims of abuse and economic circumstances, and immigration security advocates charging that unauthorized immigration is associated with increased community violence and illicit activities. Consequently, these two camps advocate very different policies for the treatment of UAC. This polarization is to some degree reflected in the tension between DHS and ORR, which despite attempts and congressional urging have failed to produce a Memorandum of Understanding between the two agencies.
Pages: 33
Date: January 31, 2008