Canary Islands Government Achieves Milestone with 295 Transfers of Unaccompanied Minors

On December 11, 2023, the Government Delegation in the Canary Islands proudly announced the successful completion of 295 transfer files for unaccompanied migrant minors to the mainland. This significant achievement underscores the ongoing commitment of local authorities to address the pressing humanitarian needs of these vulnerable individuals amid a complex migration landscape.

Significant Increase in Transfers Reflects Urgent Needs

The recent figure of 295 transfers marks a notable increase of 40 cases compared to the previous week. This rise not only highlights the urgency of the situation but also reflects the concerted efforts of the Canary Islands Government to manage the influx of unaccompanied minors effectively. The region has been facing an extraordinary migration contingency, necessitating swift and decisive action to ensure the safety and well-being of these children.

The transfers were executed in strict accordance with Article 5 and the first additional provision of Royal Decree 658/2025, which provides the legal framework for such operations. This adherence to established regulations ensures that the rights and needs of the minors are prioritized throughout the transfer process.

Archiving of Cases Indicates Progress and Challenges

In conjunction with the completed transfers, the Government Sub-delegation in Las Palmas and the Government Sub-delegation in Santa Cruz de Tenerife have also archived 117 cases. These cases were closed for various reasons, including individuals reaching the age of majority or receiving negative assessments from the Public Prosecutor’s Office. This represents an increase of 20 archived cases from the previous week, indicating both progress in managing the caseload and the challenges that remain in addressing the needs of unaccompanied minors.

The archiving of cases is a crucial aspect of the overall management strategy, as it allows authorities to focus resources on those still in need of assistance while ensuring that cases are handled efficiently and transparently.

Regulatory Framework Ensures Timely Transfers

The Government Delegation has emphasized that under the regulations governing extraordinary migration contingencies, there is a stipulated timeframe of five calendar days to execute the departure of minors following the notification of the transfer resolution. This structured approach is designed to facilitate timely action, ensuring that unaccompanied minors are swiftly relocated to designated communities where they can receive the necessary support and care.

This regulatory framework not only aims to protect the best interests of unaccompanied migrant children and adolescents but also seeks to streamline the transfer process, reducing the time these minors spend in temporary facilities. By adhering to these guidelines, the Canary Islands Government is taking proactive steps to safeguard the welfare of these vulnerable individuals during a critical period in their lives.

Community Support and Integration Efforts

As the Canary Islands Government continues to facilitate the transfer of unaccompanied minors, community support plays a vital role in ensuring successful integration. Local organizations and volunteers are stepping up to provide essential services, including education, healthcare, and emotional support. These efforts are crucial in helping minors adapt to their new environments and build a brighter future.

Moreover, the collaboration between government agencies and non-governmental organizations is essential in creating a comprehensive support network for these children. By working together, they can address the multifaceted challenges faced by unaccompanied minors, including trauma, cultural adjustment, and access to essential resources.

Key points

• The Canary Islands Government has finalized 295 transfers of unaccompanied minors.
• This marks an increase of 40 transfers compared to the previous week.
• The transfers are conducted under Royal Decree 658/2025.
• A total of 117 cases have been archived due to age or negative reports.
• The timeframe for executing transfers is five calendar days post-notification.
• Community support is crucial for the successful integration of transferred minors.
• Collaboration between government and NGOs enhances support for unaccompanied minors.