Project: From Street Children to Street Families

June 8, 2024

Climate change, along with various socio-economic conditions, is driving a new phenomenon known as cross-border street families. This term refers to entire families, including parents and children, who migrate from their home countries and end up living on the streets of cities in Ghana. These migrations are not only a result of environmental pressures but also due to economic hardships, political instability, and other adverse conditions in their countries of origin.

Our project has three primary objectives:

Identify Countries of Origin and Reasons for Migration: We aim to conduct comprehensive research to identify the countries from which these families are migrating. Understanding the specific factors that compel them to leave their homes is crucial. These factors may include extreme weather events due to climate change, such as droughts or floods, economic downturns, conflict, and political persecution. By pinpointing these reasons, we can better understand the broader context of their migration and develop targeted interventions.

Engage Policymakers and Representatives: We seek to engage with a range of stakeholders, including policymakers, representatives from the migrants' home countries, and local authorities in Ghana. Our goal is to address the immediate needs and well-being of these street families. This engagement involves advocating for their rights, ensuring access to basic services such as food, healthcare, and education, and working towards more sustainable solutions. Collaborating with international organizations and NGOs can also amplify our efforts to provide necessary aid and support.

Assess Potential for Repatriation or Local Settlement: Our final objective is to evaluate the feasibility of either facilitating the return of these families to their home countries or supporting their settlement in Ghana. This involves assessing the conditions in their countries of origin to determine if it is safe and viable for them to return. If repatriation is not possible or desirable, we will explore ways to integrate them into Ghanaian society. This could include providing legal documentation, access to employment opportunities, and social services to help them build a stable and dignified life in Ghana. By addressing these objectives, we hope to develop a holistic understanding of cross-border street families and implement effective strategies to support their transition from precarious street living to more stable and secure environments. Our approach emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and a commitment to human rights, aiming to ensure that every family has the opportunity for a better future, regardless of their origins.