The 18 Project

Across Europe reaching the age of 18 is the moment that childhood ends and adulthood begins, a much-anticipated event when finally, autonomy is granted. Their adolescence over, they are beginning to take their first steps in the world as fully-fledged adults. They can vote in elections, drive a car and drink alcohol. It is also a time of celebration and independence. A time of beginnings.

But for thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of young people this landmark birthday, this coming of age is a terrifying prospect. They are the unaccompanied migrant children in Europe. For them, in stark contrast to their peers, turning 18 means a loss of their rights as they lose the protection afforded to them as children. The obligation that European States have to protect the civil and human rights of these young people vanishes on the stroke of midnight.

Lost in Europe started The 18 Project to collect memories of migrant children who are getting closer to becoming 18, or who already turned 18. Their stories will be published by volunteers or proffesionals who work with these children, to show you how they live and what kind of memories they make in the Netherlands. Follow the lives of minors as they turn 18, and read stories about minors who already turned 18.