The Experience of Legal Transition for Refugee and Asylum-Seeking Children

Abstract

This study aims to explore the experiences of refugee and asylum-seeking children undergoing legal transitions in their host countries. It seeks to understand the complexities of their legal navigation, the emotional and psychological impacts of their experiences, the role of social and community support, and their interactions with authorities. A qualitative research design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 25 refugee and asylum-seeking children. The participants were selected to provide a diverse representation in terms of age, gender, country of origin, and legal status. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key themes and patterns within the data, aiming for theoretical saturation to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the children’s experiences. Four main themes were identified: Legal Navigation, Emotional and Psychological Impact, Social and Community Support, and Interaction with Authorities. Under Legal Navigation, children faced challenges with accessing clear information, securing trustworthy legal representation, and understanding the legal process. Emotional and Psychological Impact highlighted the prevalence of fear, uncertainty, trauma, and the strategies for resilience and hope. Social and Community Support emphasized the critical role of NGOs, peer networks, and family in providing necessary support. Interaction with Authorities revealed experiences of intimidation and the need for more child-friendly legal procedures. The study concludes that refugee and asylum-seeking children encounter significant challenges and barriers in their legal transitions, which have profound impacts on their emotional and psychological well-being. It underscores the necessity for a holistic approach in providing legal, emotional, and social support tailored to the unique needs of these children. Policies and practices should prioritize child-friendly procedures, accessible legal representation, and comprehensive support systems to mitigate the challenges faced by these vulnerable populations.