UNICEF Haiti 25d ago

The figures are alarming. In just one year, the recruitment of children by armed groups has increased by nearly 200 per cent. Today, up to half of the members of these groups are believed to be children. These children are, above all, victims. They must be protected, supported, and reintegrated into their communities, never criminalized. Haiti’s children are paying an unacceptable price for the insecurity affecting the country. Recruitment by armed groups, sexual violence, kidnappings, attacks on schools and health facilities, and impediments to humanitarian access are depriving children of their safety, well-being, and future prospects. Alongside the Haitian Government and its partners, UNICEF supports roadmaps that provide children and adolescents with concrete alternatives to violence and enable the reintegration of children formerly associated with armed groups. Through the PREJEUNES programme, they can access education, vocational training, psychosocial support, and opportunities that help them rebuild their future. Transit and Orientation Centres also receive children affected by armed groups and support their family and community reintegration.