On October 3, 2025, the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child released an inquiry report finding that France committed grave and systemic violations of the rights of unaccompanied migrant children. Conducted under Article 13 of the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the inquiry revealed serious flaws in France’s age-assessment procedures. The Committee found that the presumption of minority, which ensures children are treated as such until proven otherwise, is applied only until an initial decision is made. Once classified as adults, many are excluded from child protection services for the rest of the process. Assessments often rely on physical appearance or unreliable medical tests, increasing the risk of misclassification. Notifications of decisions are also given orally and not in a child-friendly manner, leaving many unaware of their right to appeal.

The Committee also highlighted disparities between unaccompanied migrant children and French children in the protection system. Many migrant children lack shelter, food or medical care, forcing them to survive on the streets, in parks or informal camps. Many are at risk of trafficking, exploitation, violence, and sexual abuse. Without formal recognition as minors, they are ineligible for the French universal healthcare system, leaving them without medical or psychological support.

The Committee emphasized that these violations are systemic and persistent, stemming from France’s failure to enforce adequate legal and administrative protections. It issued recommendations urging France to apply the presumption of minority throughout all procedures and ensure adequate access to housing, food, and water. Since the report’s release, France has informed the Committee of measures taken in response.