Like the rest of the world, the Dutch Caribbean was hit hard by COVID-19 and its direct consequences. The strict safety measures have brought the tourism sector to a standstill, meaning many families are now facing a severe loss of income. COVID-19 not only disrupts public life, health care and the economy, it also puts children and their future at risk. UNICEF aims to support families through this difficult time by providing tools, tips and advice.
In many countries all over the world, UNICEF supports children and their families during the corona crisis. We know how to lift children’s spirits when they are scared or sad, and encourage them to share their opinions and talk about what’s on their minds. We will be sharing all of this experience with parents, teachers and children in Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, Saba, Sint Eustatius and Sint Maarten. On this page, you can find information on education, how to keep an eye on vulnerable children, and how to help teenagers through this difficult time.
Are you a child care professional looking for resources on how to deal with the various challenges of keeping children safe during a global pandemic? UNICEF Netherlands has created a platform for child protection professionals in the Dutch Caribbean with tools, resources and important information to support you in your efforts to protect children.
© UNICEF/Joanne Blokland
© UNICEF/Joanne Blokland
We support parents by helping them navigate some of the challenges of living through a pandemic, from talking to children about COVID-19 to keeping homes happy, safe and clean.
If you're a parent experiencing any difficulties, from possible behavioural problems in your children to financial hardships, we encourage you to reach out for help.
For teenagers, the COVID-19 pandemic upends some of the most important moments of their lives. No school, no friends to visit, no sports and perhaps not even a graduation ceremony. But even though this is a difficult time, teenagers have an important role to play as agents of change. Teenagers are able to take matters into their own hands by being responsible, helping where they can, getting in touch with other teenagers around the world and sharing their ideas. We will be sharing information that can be useful for teenagers while facing these challenging matters.
The Committee on the Rights of the Child recognizes the risks to children during the global corona pandemic. The Committee has called on governments to improve measures to respect the rights of the child, including in education and online learning, rest, child protection, access to child-friendly information and ensuring children’s participation in decision-making processes on the pandemic. This advice also applies to the governments of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Download and read the Committee’s recommendations.
