#RefugeeChildren Campaign

Hundreds of boys, girls and adolescents are forced to flee violence in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras, they move to other countries in the region, including Mexico, looking for protection. They are refugees and must be protected. The solidarity of the people in the reception countries is essential so they can restart their lives. Children are often a target of violence from the gangs known as “Maras”. Forced child recruitment starts at a very young age. When they deny they want to be a part of the “mara” or collaborate with them, is usually interpreted as a defiance to the authority or as luck of trust, and can result in threats and violent acts to them and their families. The #RefugeeChildren Campaign was created by UNHCR and it is possible thanks to the support of ECHO (EU’s humanitarian aid department) and their “Children of Peace” program.