UNICEF warns that 2.6 million children in Haiti will need immediate humanitarian assistance by 2023.

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Some rated this Saturday 2.6 million children and adolescents in Haiti They need it Humanitarian aid Due immediately this 2023 Crisis of violence It affects this country.

“Humanitarian aid is a ‘bumper’ for children, adolescents and their families, one of the few lifelines left for children and adolescents in Haiti. Social unrest, insecurity, instability and high poverty”, said the Director of UNICEF for Latin America and the Caribbean. Gary CohnDuring a visit to the country this week.

The number of Haitian minors in need of humanitarian assistance increased “Half a Million” Due to increase in last two years Gun violence, cholera outbreaks, food insecurity and inflation According to UNICEF, their access to basic services was restricted.

“This Being a child or teenager in Haiti is one of the most difficult times “After the 2010 earthquake, the situation is getting worse day by day,” said Konil.

And he added “With a Limited access to clean water, affordable food, basic sanitation and safetyChildren, adolescents and their families are reaching a critical stage.

“Without urgent additional support, their humanitarian situation is likely to deteriorate further in the coming months,” he warned.

UNICEF has warned of the impact of the crisis in Haiti Protection and education of minorsFrom most Schools were closed for seven months In 2022 they reopened last October 1.2 million minors are at risk of violence in Port au Prince.

Like an outbreak of cholera, it has demanded more 500 deaths Since it was announced last October, it has been affecting children as well Children under the age of 10 account for one-third of confirmed casesUN

“Regardless of what may divide Haitians, the future of our children and adolescents must unite us all. Entrepreneurs, civil servants, artists, teachers, professors, nurses and religious leaders can be part of a positive domino effect throughout Haiti by investing in children,” pointed out Konil.

UNICEF has called on the international community Raise funds “urgently”. For the humanitarian response in Haiti.

Looking for funding 210 million dollars For its operations in Haiti by 2023, more than double what it requested last year, Goneil noted, due to the growing need to provide services to children.

Trying to talk about it Gender violence and violence against children in Haitian homes, where corporal punishment is common.

Haiti has been mired in crisis and violence for years, a situation that has since worsened In July 2021, then-President Jovenal Moss was assassinated The alleged mercenaries, most of them Colombian, entered his private residence.

Last October, the government formally requested the deployment of a foreign force, which was approved by the UN. Antonio GutierrezProposed to establish a “Quick Action Force” Composed of soldiers from one or more countries and not under the flag of the United Nations, this effort has yet to materialize.

(With information from EFE and Reuters)

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