The UMA (unaccompanied minor asylum seeker) has had to leave his trusted environment at a certain point to then further develop into an independent adult in a social and cultural environment completely new to him. The cultural uprooting, the limited knowledge of and embedment in this new environment, combined with his judicial position make him vulnerable and this requires an education and support based on respect, safety and protection.

The starting points for the function of guardian are as follows:

• There is nothing wrong with UMAs, they are missing something.
• The departure from their own country is radical for every UMA.
• Every UMA comes from a different culture, has his own story, own expectations of the future and an own will and driving force.