About the Crisis in Central America

The North of Central America (NCA) – a region comprising El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras - is one of the most dangerous places on earth. Gang violence, threats, extortion, persecution and sexual violence have forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes in search of safety and a better life.  Approximately 550,000 people have sought refuge in neighboring countries and more than 315,000 have been internally displaced inside the region. 

In 2018, political turmoil and persecution in Nicaragua triggered a massive exodus in the region, with more than 102,000 people seeking safety in neighboring countries, such as Costa Rica and Panama. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the vulnerabilities of people in NCA. Lockdowns and restrictions of movement have allowed gangs to exert control over food and medicines in certain areas as well as to target people more easily.

El Salvador saw a 31 to 41 percent increase in poverty during the pandemic. More refugees and asylum seekers are requesting assistance to cover basic needs such as rent, food, and medicine due to the socioeconomic impact of COVID-19. Many have lost their livelihoods due to the pandemic’s economic impact and violence against women has soared.

What is UNHCR doing to help in Central America?

The UN Refugee Agency is working closely with over 70 partners and governments in the NCA region to strengthen protection alternatives and encourage long term solutions for people forced to flee. Through the MIRPS (Regional Comprehensive Protection and Solutions Framework), UNHCR undertakes the following activities:

• • Providing shelters and protection services to deliver immediate assistance to people on the move. 
  • Working with host countries to help coordinate response plans and establish fair and efficient refugee status determination procedures.
  • Providing cash-based assistance as well as livelihoods and educational opportunities to support internally displaced people, women, children and members of the LGTBI community.
  • Delivering relief efforts such as food, hygienic kits, healthcare and psychological support to refugees and displaced people during the pandemic. 
  • Launching campaigns, such as My face, their stories campaign to promote peace and coexistence with host communities.

  Learn more about What We Do.