UNICEF Study Finds Foster Care for Migrant Children in Italy More Cost-Effective Than Residential Care

UNICEF Study Finds Foster Care for Migrant Children in Italy More Cost-Effective Than Residential Care
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A new UNICEF study reveals that foster care is significantly more cost-effective than residential care for migrant and refugee children arriving in Italy without parents or legal guardians, the organization’s website published.

Beyond cost savings, foster care offers children a stable, nurturing environment that supports their wellbeing, personal development, learning, and social interaction. Despite being the preferred approach under Italian law, only 4% of unaccompanied migrant children are placed in family-based care, with over 16,000 children housed in reception facilities.

A UNICEF survey via the U-Report On The Move platform shows that 53% of migrant children prefer family settings, while only 19% favor residential facilities. However, 42% are unaware that they are eligible for foster care, underscoring the need for increased awareness.

Nicola Dell’Arciprete, UNICEF Italy Country Coordinator, emphasized that expanding foster care can build more inclusive child protection systems. UNICEF urges stakeholders to promote foster care, enhance coordination, provide training, simplify procedures, and prioritize children’s voices and needs in all actions.