The recruitment of children into armed groups in Haiti has surged by a staggering 70% in the past year. This troubling increase reflects the nation’s deepening child protection crisis amid escalating violence, says UNICEF.
Children now make up half of all armed group members. Recruitment is fueled by poverty, lack of education, and the collapse of basic services.
“Children are trapped in a vicious cycle. They are recruited into armed groups that perpetuate their suffering,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. “Chaos and horror have become part of daily life in Haiti.”
DAILY THREATS IN PORT-AU-PRINCE
The capital city, Port-au-Prince, is at the epicenter of the crisis.
- 1.2 million children live under constant threat of armed violence.
- Children represent 25% of all internally displaced persons (703,000 total).
- These displaced children endure dire conditions, facing malnutrition, disease, and exploitation.
Sexual violence is rampant. Reports reveal a tenfold increase in children exposed to sexual abuse compared to previous years.
UNICEF’S PROTECTION EFFORTS
UNICEF has intensified efforts to address the protection crisis, implementing initiatives to support affected children.
- Psychosocial support: Over 25,000 individuals received psychosocial care and gender-based violence support in 2024.
- Training programs: Security forces and civil society organizations are being trained on child protection measures.
- Rehabilitation: Care is provided to former child soldiers, including family reunification services and trauma counseling.
These interventions aim to disrupt the cycle of violence and offer children a path to recovery.
A NATION’S CHILDREN UNDER SIEGE
The escalating violence disproportionately impacts Haiti’s most vulnerable. The collapse of essential services leaves children without access to education, healthcare, or safe spaces.
UNICEF reports that many children are coerced into armed groups or subjected to atrocities that leave lasting emotional scars. “No child should endure the horrors experienced in Haiti,” Ms. Russell emphasized.
URGENT CALLS FOR ACTION
UNICEF urges all parties in Haiti to prioritize child protection. Immediate measures must include:
- The release of all child recruits from armed groups.
- Ensuring children’s rights are central to peace agreements.
- International support for rebuilding education and healthcare systems.
UNICEF Executive Director Russell called for urgent global attention, stating, “The world can’t turn a blind eye to the suffering of Haiti’s children. It’s time for action.”
BREAKING THE CYCLE OF VIOLENCE
Addressing child recruitment in Haiti requires a comprehensive approach:
- Tackling poverty: Providing economic support to families can reduce vulnerability to recruitment.
- Education access: Ensuring children have access to schools can keep them away from armed groups.
- Strengthening child protection laws: Enforcing legal frameworks can hold perpetrators accountable.
- Expanding support programs: Increasing funding for psychosocial care, rehabilitation, and family reunification.
HOPE AMIDST CRISIS
Despite the harrowing statistics, UNICEF’s efforts provide a glimmer of hope. With global support, Haiti’s children can escape the cycle of violence and reclaim their futures.
The situation remains dire, but decisive action can protect the next generation and bring stability to a nation in turmoil.
