Children’s Rights at the United States-Mexico Border: Is the United States of America Breaking International Laws?

Authors

Avery Anderson, University of Cincinnati College of LawFollow

Abstract

The treatment of migrant children at the United States-Mexico border has become a contentious issue worldwide. International human rights frameworks set certain standards for the treatment of migrant children, and there are growing allegations that the United States has violated international legal obligations due to its inadequate detention conditions. This article argues that while the United States is not explicitly violating international treaties due to specific reservations, its border policies are in direct contradiction with global norms for the humane treatment of children. Through a review of the legal obligations under customary international law and international treaties, this article highlights the need for the United States to reform its immigration policies to align with the protections set forth in these treaties. The international community demands a higher standard of care for vulnerable populations, and the ongoing violations of migrant children's rights underscore the importance of upholding these standards.

Recommended Citation

Anderson, Avery (2025) "Children’s Rights at the United States-Mexico Border: Is the United States of America Breaking International Laws?," Immigration and Human Rights Law Review: Vol. 6: Iss. 2, Article 3.
Available at: https://scholarship.law.uc.edu/ihrlr/vol6/iss2/3