Statement by UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean Garry Conille on the tragic and violent event at a women's prison in Honduras

Panama City, Panama, 21 June 2023 - “I’m saddened to hear that dozens of women died due to the violent incident at the Penitenciaria Nacional Femenina de Adaptación Social in Honduras. UNICEF regrets all these deaths, and we express our solidarity with their families. 

“Some of the women were living with their children in detention. These children are now left behind and highly vulnerable. I am deeply concerned about their well-being and safety.  

No parent wants to see their child exposed to such extreme violence. To help them cope with the trauma and loss, all survivors, including these children, urgently need special attention and psychosocial care.  

“Children should not be separated from their caregivers, unless it’s in their best interests. All women and their children living in detention should be protected at all times. UNICEF is committed to support Honduras in reviewing the situation of children in institutions, including in prisons, to guarantee their rights. 

“We can’t let the children left behind get caught in a cycle of violence, exclusion and poverty. The only way we can break it is to ensure they have access to all social services. They deserve the opportunity to thrive. 

“Unfortunately, this incident is not an isolated case in Latin America and the Caribbean, where violence is often a part of everyday life for too many children and women. We call on all countries in the region to guarantee the safety and well-being of children living with their mothers in detention.  

“UNICEF stands ready to provide support to ensure the best interests of these children are taken into account.”