More than 15,000 migrant and refugee children and young people in Italy received support from UNICEF in 2025, according to the organization’s latest annual report covering activities across Europe and Central Asia.
The report shows that UNICEF delivered several support services aimed at protecting vulnerable children and improving their well-being. These programs included mental health assistance, protection services, and initiatives to prevent and respond to gender-based violence.
About 3,000 minors, women, and families also received direct individual support through local service programs. In addition, around 1,400 vulnerable children, including migrant and refugee minors, participated in special programs designed to help them improve their language abilities, digital knowledge, and other important life skills.
Migration to Italy through the Central Mediterranean continued at a significant level during 2025. UNICEF reported that more than 66,000 migrants and refugees arrived in the country through this route during the year.
Children and teenagers made up a large portion of these arrivals. Around two out of every ten migrants who reached Italy were minors, including an estimated 12,000 unaccompanied children who travelled without parents or guardians.
The Central Mediterranean route remains one of the world’s most dangerous migration paths. In 2025, an estimated 1,300 migrants were reported dead or missing while trying to reach Europe, including many children.
UNICEF also supported young migrants through its digital platform U-Report On The Move, which provides information and guidance for migrant youth living in Italy. More than 1,100 unaccompanied minors registered on the platform last year, bringing the total number of subscribers to about 19,600.
Through online outreach, the organization also shared digital messages about healthcare services and social support with approximately 79,000 people.
UNICEF said it will continue expanding its program in Italy throughout 2026, aiming to reach around 30,000 people through direct support and up to 100,000 through online initiatives, as it works with partners to strengthen protection systems for migrant and refugee children.