Children in detention are at heightened risk of contracting Covid-19 and should be released
Originally published by Unicef on 13/04/2020
Summary
Unicef is calling on governments and other detaining authorities to release all children who can safely return to their families or an appropriate alternative due to the risk of contracting Covid-19. Advocates argue that many children in detention are held in confined and overcrowded spaces with inadequate access to nutrition, healthcare and hygiene services. Further, children are more vulnerable to neglect, abuse and gender-based violence, especially if staffing levels or care are negatively impacted by the virus or containment measures.