As part of government efforts to strengthen the protection of women and girls, Minister for the Status of Women, Pédrica Saint Jean, chaired a meeting on Friday, July 31, 2026, with Ms. Geeta Narayan, UNICEF Representative in Haiti; Arielle Jeanty Villedrouin, Director of the Institute for Social Welfare and Research (IBESR); Rebecca Paule Saintilma, Coordinator of the Women's Center of the West; and other representatives from relevant institutions.

This working meeting was held in preparation for the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Women's Center of the West and UNICEF, aimed at strengthening support for girls who are victims of rape. To this end, a visit is planned to the UNICEF shelter to assess the situation of these victims and evaluate the procedures for their care.

Created to welcome, protect, and support women victims of violence, the Maison des Femmes de l’Ouest (Women’s House of the West) https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-47585-haiti-social-launch-of-the-first-shelters-for-women-victims-of-violence.html also intends to offer its expertise to girls who are victims of sexual violence, in a coordinated approach with national institutions and partners committed to their protection.

Through this initiative, the Ministry of Women’s Affairs continues to strengthen mechanisms for supporting victims of violence, promoting a concerted institutional response focused on the protection, dignity, and respect for the rights of women and girls.

IH/ iciHaiti