Posted: Tuesday, November 26, 2024. 2:27 pm CST.
By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The number of children recruited by gangs in Haiti has surged by 70% in the past year, according to UNICEF.
Currently, children make up 30% to 50% of gang members in the country, AP reports.
This alarming rise is driven by increasing poverty, violence, and political instability, with gangs controlling much of Port-au-Prince. Young boys are often used as informers or forced into violent acts, while girls are subjected to domestic labor or exploited sexually by gang members.
In a nation where over 60% of people live on less than $4 a day, gangs easily target vulnerable children.
Many are paid to join, and those who refuse face threats, abductions, or violence. The situation is worsened by the rise of vigilante movements, which view children with suspicion and may harm them.
Schools remain closed, and children living in makeshift shelters are at heightened risk of exploitation.
Experts warn that the longer children stay in gangs, the harder it is to reintegrate them into society.
UNICEF emphasizes the devastating impact of gang life on children’s mental and emotional well-being.
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The post International News: UNICEF report shows children recruited by gangs in Haiti soars by 70% appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Tuesday, November 26, 2024. 2:27 pm CST. By Zoila Palma Gonzalez: The number of children recruited by gangs in Haiti has surged by 70% in
The post International News: UNICEF report shows children recruited by gangs in Haiti soars by 70% appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
