Tracking and vetting challenges of unaccompanied alien children in the U.S.

Since the Biden administration took office, there has been a notable increase in the number of UACs crossing the U.S.-Mexico border, with estimates exceeding 500,000 since 2021. Lawmakers have criticized the administration for allegedly reducing background checks and vetting procedures for sponsors, which has led to fears of child exploitation and trafficking. Reports indicate that the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) has lost track of over 85,000 UACs, complicating efforts to ensure their safety and well-being. Critics argue that the lack of stringent vetting processes has resulted in children being placed with individuals who may have criminal backgrounds or potential ties to human trafficking networks.

Legislative Concerns

Republican lawmakers have expressed alarm over the administration’s handling of UACs, suggesting that policies have fostered an environment where exploitation can thrive. In a letter to President Biden and Vice President Harris, they accused the administration of a “cover-up” regarding the safety of these children, claiming that the ORR has not complied with information requests related to possible child trafficking. They have also highlighted the dramatic rise in sex trafficking incidents involving migrant girls, linking this trend to the perceived inadequacies in tracking and vetting procedures.

Human Trafficking Risks

Experts in human trafficking have pointed to the alarming increase in the number of migrant girls being trafficked since the Biden administration’s policy changes. Activists claim that the ease of crossing the border has allowed traffickers to operate more freely, resulting in a multibillion-dollar industry that exploits vulnerable children. Reports suggest that many of these children are being advertised on social media platforms, further emphasizing the urgency of addressing the gaps in tracking and vetting.

Background Check Limitations

The ORR is responsible for conducting background checks on potential sponsors of UACs. However, studies have shown that a significant percentage of children were placed with sponsors before completing these checks, raising serious concerns about their safety. The lack of thorough vetting processes has been criticized as a major oversight that could lead to dangerous placements for these vulnerable children.

In summary, the challenges surrounding the tracking and vetting of unaccompanied alien children in the U.S. highlight critical issues related to their safety and the potential for exploitation. As the number of UACs continues to rise, the need for effective policies and procedures to protect these children becomes increasingly urgent.