The report discusses the increasing instances of xenophobic attacks against unaccompanied foreign minors in Spain. In Canet and Castelldefels, incidents of violence have occurred, with one involving a machete attack at a center for unaccompanied minors. The Generalitat of Catalonia has condemned these acts as racially motivated and intends to file a charge for hate crime. However, some voices, including those of the Castelldefels mayor, have been more cautious, suggesting the actions were merely a fight between youths.
It is crucial to condemn all forms of racism. Yet, the report highlights the need for a broader approach. It cites UNICEF's findings that the rights of unaccompanied minors are often violated upon arrival, as it is the police rather than child protection agencies that initiate care processes. Conditions at reception centers are also reported as unsuitable, lacking necessary services.
The report argues that administrative borders should not exclude those already present in the country. Delays in residency authorization or work permit processes hinder older minors from finding employment, highlighting a conflict between immigration law and regulations for minors' rights. Many minors come to work, often as part of their family's strategy to escape poverty.
Catalonia has created 2,655 new places since 2017, but this effort remains insufficient, according to the third sector. Improvisation is noted, such as the extended operation of emergency centers without educational projects ensuring an integrated process. The transition from reception to emancipation is vital, requiring coordination among involved actors.
Municipalities play a crucial role in these issues. They are where conflicts arise from poor reception, where xenophobic and racist discourses can quickly spread, and where policies are translated into practices involving multiple stakeholders. Information alone is not enough; these communities must be involved and included in the integration process that is not solely their responsibility but also everyone's.
Condemning racism is essential, but it must be accompanied by explanation. It's important to recognize that these minors come to stay and that how they are received shapes the societies we wish to build. Excluding them today risks creating conflicts tomorrow. Only through inclusion can we create safe societies. This does not mean there are no elements of conflict; indeed, they are part of the process. The challenge lies in whether we use these conflicts as arguments for inclusion or succumb to racist or xenophobic discourses.
