UNICEF Ambassador Ricky Martin calls for greater efforts for children fleeing Syria conflict

Following a two-day visit to Lebanon, singer Ricky Martin, a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), has called for greater efforts to safeguard the futures of millions of children affected by the Syrian conflict, whose lives have been shaped by displacement, violence and a persistent lack of opportunities.

“We are in the sixth year of a crisis that has impacted the lives of millions of children and their families. An estimated 2.8 million children are now out of school in the region,” said Mr. Martin, highlighting that he met children who have been forced to become breadwinners for their families, working up to 12 hours a day.

“The world must do more to make sure these children are protected from exploitation and given access to safe environments where they can learn and be empowered,” he added.

UNICEF underscored that about 1.1 million Syrians have sought refuge in Lebanon since the start of the crisis in 2011, more than half of them children. Child refugees are particularly at risk of exploitation and abuse, with large numbers being left with no choice but to go out to work, rather than attend school.

The deteriorating economic situation for Syrian refugees has dramatically exacerbated the problem of child labour in Lebanon. Adding to the psychological distress already affecting many of the children who have fled conflict and violence at home is the challenge associated with some of the worst forms of child labour, such as working on construction sites, which can cause long-term developmental and psychological damage as well as physical harm, UNICEF said.

UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Ricky Martin speaks to Syrian refugee children at a UNICEF supported safe space for children in Tal Hayat in northern Lebanon. Photo: UNICEF/UN020855/Choufany

During his visit, Mr. Martin witnessed how UNICEF is working to provide protective environments for children and adolescents where they can play and receive the support they need to get back into formal education.

In Lebanon's Bekaa valley and Akkar, he participated in recreational activities for children at safe spaces in informal settlements. He also met adolescents attending life skills training, provided by UNICEF and partners, where girls and boys are given vocational preparation and learning support.

UNICEF is working closely with Government institutions, as well as local and international partners, to meet the needs of more than 800,000 vulnerable children who have sought refuge in Lebanon, focusing on health and nutrition; education; child protection; water, sanitation and hygiene; and support services that specifically target adolescents.

“I am inspired by the courage of these children. They are gaining the knowledge and skills they need to contribute to their families, communities and societies when they reach adulthood. Investing in their present is an investment in the future of the region,” said Mr. Martin.

In his role as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador since 2003, Mr. Martin has worked to defend children's rights, with a focus on advocating for the protection of children against exploitation, abuse and trafficking. Additionally, UNICEF and the Ricky Martin Foundation have collaborated to end atrocities against children, such as child trafficking and child labour.