IIN-OAS STATEMENT ON THE EARTHQUAKES IN VENEZUELA

IIN-OAS STATEMENT ON THE EARTHQUAKES IN VENEZUELA

The Inter-American Children’s Institute (IIN-OAS) expresses its deep concern regarding the consequences of the earthquake that struck the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and conveys its solidarity to the Venezuelan people, particularly children and adolescents, as well as their families and communities.

Emergency situations and natural disasters disproportionately impact children and adolescents, exposing them to risks that can compromise their protection, holistic development, and the full exercise of their rights. Therefore, it is essential that all humanitarian, assistance, and reconstruction efforts incorporate a child rights approach and place the best interests of the child as the primary consideration in decision-making.

The protection of life, physical and mental health, access to essential services, family strengthening, and the continuity of spaces for care, recreation, education, and protection must be immediate priorities in addressing this emergency.

In this context, the IIN calls upon the OAS Member States, international organizations, civil society, the private sector, and all actors committed to guaranteeing human rights to strengthen regional cooperation and solidarity mechanisms to support response and recovery efforts, ensuring that the urgent needs and rights of children and adolescents are addressed as a priority.

The Americas share a common responsibility for their children. Faced with the challenges posed by emergencies and disasters, we reaffirm our commitment to coordinated, solidarity-based, and human rights-based action, convinced that the comprehensive protection of children and adolescents is essential for the recovery and resilience of our societies.