UNICEF Croatia launches emergency appeal to support children affected by earthquakes in Venezuela

Zagreb, 26 June 2026 – An estimated 3.9 million children live in the areas affected by the powerful 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June, UNICEF reports. This disaster has further worsened an already severe humanitarian situation, placing children’s lives at serious risk.

As damage assessments continue, it is becoming increasingly clear that thousands of children and families will require urgent assistance, with needs rising by the hour.

In response, UNICEF Croatia has launched an emergency appeal to support children in Venezuela and their families.

“The images we are seeing from Venezuela and the stories we hear from colleagues on the ground are heartbreaking," said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. "Our thoughts are with the children and families who have lost loved ones and all of those whose lives have been upended.  As the scale of the damage becomes clearer, children's safety, protection and well-being must remain at the center of the response.”

When disaster strikes, children are always among the most vulnerable. In the hours and days ahead, children in Venezuela may face injury, family separation, displacement, distress, and disruptions to essential systems, including healthcare, safe drinking water, education and protection.

UNICEF is on the ground and has activated emergency response mechanisms, coordinating the delivery of assistance despite challenging logistical conditions. In collaboration with national authorities and partners, UNICEF is assessing the needs of affected populations and supporting the response to the crisis. Priorities include ensuring safe shelter for displaced families, access to healthcare, psychosocial support, and access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation.

The devastating earthquakes have struck Venezuela at a time when an existing humanitarian crisis was already threatening the safety and survival of millions of children and their families. Even before the earthquakes, the situation was alarming: 1.3 million people were undernourished, 3.3 million children needed support in education, and 5.2 million people lacked access to safe drinking water. The impact of the earthquakes is expected to further increase these numbers, putting many more children and families at risk. Without immediate and timely assistance, the lives of millions of children are at serious risk.

More information about UNICEF’s response to the growing needs in Venezuela and how to help children is available at: https://donacije.unicef.hr/venezuela