In a pivotal meeting on August 11, 2025, representatives from UNICEF, including its New York and Haiti offices, convened with the General Directorate of the Haitian National Police (PNH) to address the escalating crisis of children influenced by gangs. The session aimed to enhance collaborative efforts to safeguard these vulnerable minors. UNICEF highlighted a disturbing surge in severe violations against children, including abductions, murders, mutilations, exploitation, and sexual violence perpetrated by gangs. Despite these challenges, UNICEF praised the PNH’s Juvenile Brigade for its commendable efforts and lauded the implementation of a protocol established in June 2024 by the Haitian government and UNICEF, designed to facilitate the transfer and reintegration of affected children. The PNH reiterated its commitment to child protection as a state priority, expressing concerns over the dysfunction of juvenile detention centers in the West Department and emerging threats like organ trafficking. The meeting yielded actionable strategies, including bolstering PNH capabilities and launching joint preventive communication campaigns. Both parties pledged to finalize the Hand Over protocol and ensure the safety of Haitian children, with a follow-up meeting planned. Additionally, a comprehensive workshop involving key stakeholders such as the Country Task Force on Monitoring and Reporting (CTFMR), the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC), and UNICEF technical teams explored global best practices and policy frameworks to better protect children from armed violence and rights violations in Haiti.
Security : Meeting between UNICEF and the PNH on the protection of children under the influence of gangs
