Luxembourg’s treatment of underaged refugees has often drawn criticism from human rights organisations, including domestic ones like the Consultative Human Rights Commission (CCDH) and the Ombudsman for Children and Youths (OKAJU).
In a recent explorative ethnographic study, which was commissioned by the aforementioned organisations, Prof Dr Reckinger spoke to both youths and social workers here in Luxembourg to establish a better glimpse on their identities and living conditions.
The cultural anthropologist found that media reports of criminal acts committed by minors often only present a reduced and binary image of the situation. He drew attention to an increase in reports of “problematic minors” coming to the Grand Duchy from abroad and criticised that such efforts of misrepresentation contribute to continued stigmatisation in the country.
The researcher emphasised the importance of deconstructing these misrepresentations, which may lead to populist tendencies even here in Luxembourg. He further advocated for journalistic integrity and thorough research in times of click-oriented headlines.
To provide more depth to the research project, Prof Dr Reckinger aspires to continue his investigations and learn more about the backgrounds of people who fled to the Grand Duchy.
