UNICEF deploys rapid assessment missions in Mexico City, Puebla and Morelos

4.6 million dollars required to meet emergency needs of children affected by two earthquakes

Mexico City, 21 September 2017 - UNICEF has deployed experts to assess the situation of children in the most affected areas of Mexico City, Puebla and Morelos, while the organization continues to provide support to children affected by the September 7 earthquake in Oaxaca and Chiapas. The UNICEF teams will determine support that is needed in terms of water and sanitation, health, education and child protection.

"UNICEF has been supporting children in Mexico for many years but, at the moment, the country and organizations like ours face a great challenge," says Christian Skoog, UNICEF Representative in Mexico.

"Our priority in these circumstances is to ensure that children and young people are protected and supported, physically and emotionally. As we strive to identify their needs through our evaluation missions, in close collaboration with Mexican authorities and our civil society allies, we express our solidarity and support to the people of Mexico. "

UNICEF’s work on national programmes targeting vulnerable and marginalized children continues amidst these new challenging circumstances.

The earthquake on September 19 affected highly urbanized areas during school and work hours, with terrible consequences. Along with partners, the organization is also monitoring and awaiting news of rescues, including of children and young people still trapped underneath the rubble.

"As humanitarian workers, as parents and as human beings, we share the pain of those who have lost their children, as well as the hope of those still awaiting news," said Christian Skoog. "Our hearts are with you and with all of Mexico."

Skoog, who has just returned from Oaxaca, where UNICEF has been setting up "Child Friendly Spaces" in response to the September 7 earthquake, said that in these situations, children and adolescents have special needs that must to be taken into account, and called on authorities to ensure that these needs remain a priority in ongoing relief efforts.