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The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) is deepening its collaboration with the Haitian government to protect children impacted by rising gang violence, a senior official said. Geeta Narayan, UNICEF’s representative in Haiti, described the organization’s efforts as critical to addressing the severe risks faced by children caught in the country’s escalating security crisis.
UNICEF estimates that up to half of Haiti’s armed gang members are under the age of 18. The figure highlights the vulnerability of children in the ongoing conflict, many of whom are recruited into gangs or subjected to violence. “These children are victims of the wider instability, and our priority is ensuring their safety, psychological well-being, and access to essential services,” Narayan told VOA Kreyol.
To mitigate the impact of the crisis, UNICEF is providing direct financial assistance to affected families. Cash transfers aim to cover urgent needs such as school fees and healthcare expenses, helping children maintain access to education and basic services. The organization has also established programs to provide psychosocial support, addressing the emotional and psychological toll on children displaced or traumatized by violence.
Amid widespread insecurity, UNICEF is urging all parties to respect schools as places of safety and learning. Protecting educational institutions from violence is crucial to maintaining stability and ensuring children’s rights, the agency said.
Narayan underscored the importance of collaboration between the Haitian government, international partners, and civil society to create sustainable solutions. “A coordinated approach is essential to address the root causes of violence and support the communities most affected,” she said.
As Haiti grapples with overlapping crises, UNICEF is calling for greater international support to bolster local systems and ensure children’s needs are prioritized. The agency emphasized that addressing the needs of Haiti’s youngest and most vulnerable citizens is fundamental to achieving long-term stability.
