Colombia hosts the largest number of Venezuelan refugees and migrants. Some parts of the country also continue to be affected by armed violence. Measures to curb the spread of COVID-19 have disrupted access to basic services and exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. Reports of gender-based violence as well as unplanned pregnancies and maternal deaths are rising. UNFPA is working to ensure continuity of sexual and reproductive health services and mitigate the risk of gender-based violence, reaching both Venezuelan and Colombian women and girls, including in indigenous communities.

Guatemala is one of the countries in Latin America experiencing a serious El Niño-induced drought. Of the 3.5 million people impacted in the Region, 1.5 million are Guatemalans. Lack of food and water is expected to worsen the nutritional status of those affected, making them vulnerable to health problems and displacement. UNFPA is focusing on supporting sexual and reproductive health and gender based violence services.

Cuba is highly vulnerable to natural and climate-induced hazards, including hurricanes, earthquakes and droughts. Additionally, an intensification of the blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States in 2020 has complicated access to medicines, health supplies and technologies. UNFPA is responding through the delivery of reproductive health kits. These kits contain supplies for care at childbirth, including for cesarean sections and management of complications, as well as hormonal contraceptives. UNFPA distributes dignity kits to pregnant women to support them in meeting their basic hygiene needs.

Ecuador is both a transit and destination country for refugees and migrants from Venezuela. On their journey, refugees and migrants face increased risks of sexual violence and exploitation, human trafficking and smuggling. They often have limited access to livelihood opportunities and face difficulties in accessing information as well as basic services such as healthcare and education. The COVID-19 pandemic has aggravated poverty and existing inequalities while overwhelming Ecuador’s capacity to respond to humanitarian needs. UNFPA is responding to the sexual and reproductive health and protection needs of both Venezuelan refugees and migrants and their host communities, including through initiatives aimed at strengthening local and national capacities in the areas of GBV and SRH.

Political instability, gang violence and the impact of the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in 2021 have escalated the complex humanitarian crisis in Haiti. Access to social services is compromised and risks of gender-based violence (GBV) heightened. UNFPA strengthens capacity at health facilities so that women and adolescent girls can access sexual and reproductive health services, and supports survivors of GBV.