UNICEF Regional Director strengthens partnerships to accelerate results for children in the Eastern

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados / PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago / CASTRIES, Saint Lucia, 15 March 2026 – UNICEF Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, Roberto Benes, has concluded a multi-country mission to the Eastern Caribbean, reinforcing partnerships with governments to advance the rights and wellbeing of children and adolescents.

During the visit, Benes met with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar to discuss a shared vision for children. Discussions focused on aligning national and regional priorities and identifying high-impact actions to deliver results at scale. He highlighted the importance of education and reducing child poverty as key areas of focus, building on UNICEF’s ongoing collaboration with the twin-island republic to strengthen systems and improve outcomes for children.

In Saint Lucia, Benes met with Prime Minister Philip Pierre, where discussions centred on Early Childhood Development and the impact of climate change on children. The visit reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting national efforts through policy dialogue, technical assistance and evidence-based solutions.

While in the country, Benes also joined an exchange with adolescents facilitated by Minister of Equity, Erma Hippolyte. Young people shared their ambitions, the challenges they face in their daily lives, and how education systems can better respond to their needs.

“I was struck by how strongly they want to be heard and included in decisions that affect them,” Benes said. “Their honesty and clarity were a powerful reminder that real change starts with listening.”

In Barbados, Benes met with Minister of Educational Transformation, Chad Blackman, where discussions focused on ongoing education reform and equipping young people with the skills needed for a changing world. UNICEF’s partnership with the Ministry has supported initiatives such as positive behaviour management and strengthening student participation through the National Students Council.

He also met with adolescents in Barbados, where young people spoke about their priorities and the changes they want to see in their communities.

“There is no better way to understand the realities they face - and the change they want to see - than by listening to them,” Benes said.

Across all three countries, the mission underscored the importance of sustained investment in children, strong national systems and meaningful engagement with young people. UNICEF will continue working with governments and partners across the Eastern Caribbean to ensure that every child and adolescent has the opportunity to thrive.

This story was first published by UNICEF