CBP to Improve Screening of Unaccompanied Mexican Children

July 14, 2015 – For years, the Women's Refugee Commission (WRC) has documented the U.S. government’s shortcomings in protecting unaccompanied Mexican children arriving at the border. Today we welcome agreement between the Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to improve screening procedures of this vulnerable population.

In a report released today, the GAO details inadequate assessments by CBP agents and officers regarding whether a child fears return to his/her country, is at risk of trafficking and is competent to decide if he/she wants to return home before seeing a judge. Immediate changes are necessary to ensure children are not returned to danger or exploitation.

WRC is pleased CBP recognizes its screening can and should be improved and commits to assisting the government to implement these welcome changes.