April 20, 2021

Anna Murray 

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reported a surge of migrant children entering Mexico, destined for the United States, about 275 each day. During January to March 2021, the number of children seeking to cross the Mexico-US border reportedly increased nine fold from 380 to 3,500. These migrant children mostly came from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.

The dismal messages were announced by UNICEF Director Jean Gough, Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean based in Panama, after wrapping up her latest 5-day visit to Mexico and stops along its border towns with the United States. The Regional Director Ms. Gough is deeply concerned of deteriorating living conditions for migrant children and mothers in Mexico. Meanwhile, UNICEF worries migrants often risk their lives and suffered abuse on their journey, including extortion, sexual assault, kidnapping and human trafficking.

According to the UNICEF report, the agency is urgently seeking US$ 23 million. The fund will target on the most vulnerable groups in Mexico with quality education, life skills and vocational training. It will also improve water and sanitation facilities, offer alternative care and violence prevention activities.

Photo:webshot.