Migrant and Refugee Children in Latin America and the Caribbean
Support for Migrant and Refugee Children contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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What is the problem?
6.3 million migrant children in the region are facing life-threatening situations and multiple forms of violence. They seek to get away from violent gangs that target them or poverty and exclusion that deny them opportunities and hope. Many also travel north to reunite with their families.
Hundreds of thousands of children move on their own and with their families, often using dangerous routes and engaging smugglers to help them cross borders. Deprived, unprotected and often alone, children on the move can become easy prey to traffickers and others who abuse and exploit them.
Regardless of their immigration status, all children have the right to be protected from harm; to obtain essential services such as health care and education; to be with their families; and to have their best interests guide decisions which affect them.
How we respond?
UNICEF promotes six priorities to keep migrant children safe and provide them with a better future. Our response is a comprehensive approach to address the rights of children in countries of origin (preventing and responding to violence and improving opportunities), during transit (access to services, case management and appropriate care), during reintegration (if they are returned to their home communities) or at their destination (social integration and non- discrimination).
How we measure program impact?
Monitoring program progress and measuring results are critical to driving continuous improvements and advancing accountabilities for delivering on commitments. The following indicators reflect the regional level milestones, progress and impact expected of UNICEF’s interventions.
Examples of UNICEF in Action
How can you work with UNICEF?
UNICEF is well-positioned and well equipped to design, develop and implement programs with our regional and in-country presence. We have a proven track record and direct access to policymakers. However, UNICEF cannot do this alone. UNICEF values collaborative and strategic partnerships for children. We invite you to contribute to innovative solutions for keeping migrant children safe and guaranteeing their rights.
Financial requirement
UNICEF in the Latin America and the Caribbean Region requires a total of USD 4 million per year to implement the proposed programs and achieve the necessary results. Financial commitments from the business community and philanthropic organizations will be critical, and will be combined with funding from UNICEF to increase impact.
Examples of impact of financial support
