Venezuela Protection Situation Update #3 - Earthquake Response

This is the 3rd protection update from the Protection Cluster in Venezuela about the Earthquake response. 

The available information shows that protection needs continue to rise among the population affected by the earthquakes. The loss of homes, displacement, stays in temporary government-managed shelters and informal accommodation sites, as well as the disruption or weakening of family, community, institutional, and protection networks, have increased exposure to protection risks and reduced the coping capacity of affected communities. Assessments conducted identify significant concerns related to mental health and psychosocial support needs, family separation, inadequate privacy and security in accommodation facilities, and the loss of personal documentation, which may affect access to assistance and essential services. These risks disproportionately affect children and adolescents, women, older persons, persons with disabilities, and other individuals with specific protection needs.

In this context, the sector’s priorities continue to focus on strengthening protection mechanisms for the most vulnerable populations, increasing access to specialised services, and helping ensure that affected people can access humanitarian assistance and available services safely and with dignity.