Andorran UNICEF Committee Ramps Up Fundraising for Venezuelan Earthquake Victims

The Andorran UNICEF committee continues its emergency fundraising drive to aid children affected by the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24 June, as casualty figures climb and rescue efforts face mounting challenges amid reports of aid delays and political obstacles.

The quakes, of 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude, centred in Yaracuy state but devastated Caracas, La Guaira—declared a catastrophic zone—and surrounding areas including Miranda, Carabobo, Aragua, and Falcón. Latest tallies vary widely: UNICEF reports at least 211 deaths and 1,261 injuries, while updates from the Andorran Residents Association cite 589 fatalities and nearly 3,000 wounded; one resident quoted nearly 1,500 deaths, 3,300 injuries, and over 50,000 missing. More than 36,000 people remain unaccounted for, with aftershocks now subsided but search operations slowed by a lack of equipment under rubble, particularly in La Guaira. Damage has crippled homes, schools, hospitals, water networks, and infrastructure serving 3.9 million children, exacerbating Venezuela's ongoing crisis where 7.9 million people already needed humanitarian support. UNICEF's prior 2026 appeal for the country sought $137.6 million but received just 35% of funds.

Children face acute risks of injury, separation from families, displacement, trauma, and lost access to health, water, education, and protection. UNICEF responded swiftly, flying medical supplies, sanitation kits, tents, and essentials for 100,000 people from Copenhagen within 24 hours. On-site efforts with Venezuelan authorities, the UN, and partners focus on child protection, psychosocial care, safe spaces, and water distribution.

William Reinaldo Márquez, president of the Andorran Residents Association, warned of a deepening humanitarian crisis on Thursday, citing absent rescue teams in La Guaira, institutional hurdles, and political issues impeding aid—claims echoed by resident Cesar de Pablos, who described government control over relief distribution and looting. Telecom blackouts have eased since mid-afternoon, allowing some Andorran Venezuelans to reconnect, though initial fears persisted. Márquez confirmed no deaths or injuries among relatives of Andorran residents at first, but a La Guaira resident later lost family members, prompting a memorial mass there.

Foreign Minister Imma Tor expressed Andorra's condolences on X and provided the consular emergency line, 324 292. No Andorrans appear affected per travel records. Donations to UNICEF Andorra are urged via Bizum 07293 or bank transfers to bolster child-focused relief. Caritas Andorra has also begun collections, with the Residents Association planning further actions.