Children's voices in Haiti's recovery
Photo courtesy of Plan staff.
Plan, in partnership with UNICEF, is leading a project to ensure children’s voices are heard in the rebuilding of Haiti. This the first time that children’s voices are being formally included in such a high-level plan for recovery after a disaster.
Listening to children
Through workshops, children and youth are asked to draw pictures of what they thought about the earthquake; share their dreams into sound recorders; talk about what they feel the priorities are in rebuilding the country; and to create personal stories with hand-made puppets.
One girl said that she wanted a clean, safe school surrounded by green trees. A boy drew a picture of a boy who is missing a leg, and told facilitators he wanted a special place where boys like him could live a normal life.
“The moment of change for Haiti”
Another girl shared her thoughts on the tragedy of the past and the opportunity for the future:
“At the time of the earthquake, I thought that it was the end of the world. I lost an uncle who died in the ruins. I wish now that this moment – it will be the moment of change for Haiti. We need to create jobs for the youth, to rebuild all our schools. I wish to live in a better Haiti where the government takes responsibility for children and youth, because they are the future of the country. I wish that schools will start again where there will be good education, where children learn in safety and can study without fear."
Because of this project, these kids are a unique generation – the generation invited to participate in the decision-making process for the first time, as Haiti embarks on its disaster reconstruction plan.
Part of the plan, part of the solution
Post-disaster needs assessment (PDNA) is the official planning document for the reconstruction of Haiti. It is being backed by the UN, the EU, the International Development Bank, the World Bank and the Haitian government and will be released at the March 31 high-level UN meeting on Haiti.
By the time this landmark document debuts in New York, more than 1000 children and youth between 5 and 24 will have contributed. With half of Haiti’s population below the age of 18, involving children and youth in the planning process is essential for the recovery and reconstruction of the country.
Be a part of the change
You can be a part of the change happening in Haiti. Make a donation today to help children and youth recover from the earthquake and build a better future.
