Catherine Russell, UNICEF The CEO highlighted the terrible impact of violence on children and young people.
“The The humanitarian disaster unfolding before our eyes is having devastating consequences for children.. Displaced children are in dire need of a safe and protective environment, as well as more support and funding from the international community,” she said.
Across the country, an estimated three million children are in need of humanitarian assistance amid years of political instability, widespread poverty, disease outbreaks and multiple disasters.
Facing increased risks
Displaced children in Haiti face increased risks of violence, including sexual assault, exploitation, abuse and family separation. Access to essential services such as safe spaces, health care, clean water and sanitation is severely disrupted.
Poor sanitation in refugee camps and makeshift settlements increases the risk of diseases such as cholera, while school closures and economic constraints due to violence have forced many children to drop out of school.
Furthermore, with little other means of survival or protection, Children are increasingly being forced to join armed groups – a clear violation of their rights and violate international law, UNICEF stressed.
The danger continues to grow
These challenges are exacerbated by devastating threats that are looming across the country.
Haiti’s National Emergency Operations Center has warned of an “overactive” hurricane season that will further threaten an already displaced population. Last month, a tornado in Bassin Bleu, in the northwest, destroyed the homes of 650 children.
UNICEF warned that the weakened health care system, which was already struggling to meet demand before the latest escalation of violence, faces a rainy season that is expected to further worsen the situation, threatening to increase waterborne diseases.
“The needs in Haiti continue to grow, along with the dangers to children,” said Ms Russell, adding that everyone has a role to play in changing the trajectory and ensuring children are protected, educated and have access to basic services.
“Children should not have to pay with their lives and futures for a crisis created by adults.,” she speaks.
