Family Reunification

Cameroon / CAR refugees / Madina has a big smile on her face when she finally finds her older sister, Ramatou, at her descent from the bus that brought her to Mbile refugee camp from Gbiti, Cameroon/CAR border. Madina had spent two months walking with her two brothers in the bush. She did not know whether she would see her sister again/ UNHCR / F.Noy / May 2014

When a family has been forced to flee their home it is vital that we do all we can to keep everyone safe and together. In the upheaval and chaos of an emergency, family members can get separated which can be a dangerous and terrifying experience, especially if it happens to a child.

Our work with helping families find each other and stay together in times of extreme stress and upset is crucial. With the help of partners, well established procedures and strong international laws, families can stay safe and rebuild their lives.

“Family is the natural and fundamental group unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the State.”

The principle of family unity is set in international law

Accidental separation is when someone loses their family unintentionally, and is usually a direct consequence of the family fleeing conflict. Deliberate separation is when there is a conscious decision to separate the family. This is usually due to extra stresses put upon the family in the aftermath of an emergency. These include a lack of food, shelter or access to education, or having to escape domestic violence or other forms of abuse.

When we find an unaccompanied child, their safety is of paramount importance. After talking to them to understand their situation we work with partners including national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to begin the process of tracing their family. It is vital that we do this quickly but also in a way that does not expose the child to any risks. In situations when there are large numbers of unaccompanied children, we prioritise the most vulnerable who are usually those under five years old.

Everyone has the right to be with their family, but for refugees it is particularly important. Not least because it can offer protection to each family member which is usually more effective than the efforts of outside help.