Over 100 unaccompanied minors: Bautzen's refugee numbers are increasing!

Over 100 unaccompanied minors: Bautzen's refugee numbers are increasing!

In the Bautzen district, the care of underage refugees who arrive alone is becoming an increasingly pressing issue. Currently, over 100 of these young people are accommodated in the region Radiolausitz reported. At the end of April 2023 there were 113 underage refugees, around half of whom live in residential groups in Bautzen, Hoyerswerda and Radeberg. These facilities not only offer young people a roof over their heads, but also support in their everyday lives.

What is particularly noticeable is that minors receive monthly pocket money that varies depending on their age - around 55 euros for a 14-year-old and 85 euros for a 17-year-old. However, the costs for cell phones and cell phone tariffs have to be borne by yourself, which can lead many people into financial difficulties. In order to ensure the accommodation and care of this vulnerable group, the district has budgeted around 22 million euros for 2023 and the coming year.

Increasing case numbers and additional resources

In view of the increasing number of cases, the district committee of the district council has decided to increase expenditure for the accommodation and care of these unaccompanied minor asylum seekers (Uma). Saxon reports that additional additional expenses of 500,000 euros are planned for 2023. These financial resources are partly necessary to create more places for minors. The originally planned annual average number of 60 places has already been increased to 88.

This reaction is in response to the disproportionate increase in cases that became clearly visible in the third quarter of 2023. In October 2023, 123 allocations were already recorded. This is a cause for concern and shows the need to adapt existing structures accordingly.

National perspective and outlook

Throughout Germany, the increase in unaccompanied minor asylum seekers is an issue that is not only being discussed in Bautzen. According to data from the BAMF (Federal Office for Migration and Refugees), the trend can be observed until 2024. A comparison of the years shows that the support and integration of these children and young people is not just a local challenge, but rather a task for the whole of Germany.

The developments in Bautzen are a reflection of what is currently happening in many regions of Germany. It is now up to decision-makers to take the right measures to meet the needs of these young people - after all, they are children who are looking for security and prospects in their new home.