Statement Opposing the Deportation of Minors from the U.S. Southern Border

From ISSOP (International Society for Social Pediatrics and Child Health)

'As pediatricians dedicated to the health, safety, and well-being of all children, we strongly oppose the deportation of minors from the U.S. Southern Border. Forced deportations of children is a gross violation of their rights and places them in situations of extreme vulnerability—exposing them to violence, exploitation, family separation, and lack of access to basic healthcare, education, and social support.

'Children seeking safety at the border are often fleeing persecution, armed conflict, poverty, and other forms of systemic violence. The deportation of these youth, without due process and proper safeguards, violates fundamental human rights, including those articulated in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which emphasizes that every child has the right to protection and care, regardless of immigration status.

'We call on policymakers to adopt child-centered immigration policies that prioritize the best interests of children. This includes ensuring access to legal representation, trauma-informed care, and safe, humane alternatives to detention and deportation. As pediatricians, we affirm that protecting children—regardless of nationality or migration status—is a moral and ethical obligation that transcends political borders.

'We urge the U.S. government to halt the deportation of minors and implement policies that uphold children's rights, dignity, and well-being.'

'Please consider joining ISSOP (www.ISSOP.org) in our efforts to address the critical global challenges confronting children and families.  Your knowledge, experience, expertise and passion can help transform the lives of children worldwide.  Please join us.'