Newsroom / CNA
A total of 27 unaccompanied minors have been stranded at the Pournara Temporary Reception and Accommodation Center for an average of 90 days, despite completing all necessary procedures for their transfer, according to a report by Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights Protection, Maria Stylianou-Lottides.
During an unannounced visit, the Commissioner found that 74 minors were residing at the center, including 27 unaccompanied children—15 boys and 12 girls. Prior to last November, the practice was to relocate unaccompanied minors to designated facilities following the completion of required procedures. However, transfers have since halted, leaving these children in limbo, some for over 100 days.
Violation of international standards
Stylianou-Lottides criticized the ongoing situation as a violation of international legal frameworks safeguarding children's rights. She emphasized that unaccompanied minors should be housed in appropriate facilities rather than closed reception centers, which fail to provide the necessary environment for their development.
The report further highlighted the lack of educational access, urging authorities to ensure that asylum-seeking minors enter the education system within three months of their application. Although the center has a playground and outdoor sports areas, the Commissioner noted that prolonged confinement negatively affects children's mental and emotional well-being.
“All unaccompanied children must receive equal treatment and rights comparable to those of host country citizens,” she stated, stressing that a child's migration status should not dictate their welfare.
Calls for immediate action
The Commissioner urged the Deputy Ministry of Social Welfare to prioritize the relocation of unaccompanied minors to suitable accommodations without further delay. Additionally, she called for better coordination between the Asylum Service and Social Welfare Services to expedite transfers and facilitate education access.
Living conditions and infrastructure upgrades
While acknowledging improvements in infrastructure and reduced overcrowding, the Commissioner noted that the center remains a closed facility, with exit permitted only under official escort. Construction is underway to increase capacity from 500 to 2,324 beds, but the Emergency Zone’s Rubb Halls remain inadequate for winter conditions despite heating provisions.
Residents receive three daily meals, medical care, and access to hygiene facilities, with Wi-Fi and electrical outlets available. However, the Commissioner stressed the need for further efforts to minimize the length of stay at Pournara, ensuring that residence there is limited to essential public interest cases.
