How the United States Fails Immigrant Youth

Immigrants are some of the most marginalized members of society. Immigrant youth, in particular, endure additional stresses due to their dual status as children and immigrants. Many fled their home country from persecution or entered the U.S. without a parent or legal guardian. By May 2024, over 120 million individuals were “forcibly displaced worldwide as a result of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations.” In 2022, over 152,000 unaccompanied immigrant youths crossed the U.S.-Mexico border.

The United States faces several challenges in supporting these immigrant youths, and it currently fails to meet those challenges. ... This note details how the U.S. immigration system works and some available forms of immigration relief for children. This note also addresses the challenges they face due to the dangers of the immigration process, including violence, exploitation, abuse, discrimination, a lack of support in schools, and familial pressures. Lastly, this note makes recommendations for more comprehensive support.