June 27, 2026
Chilean authorities have launched a major investigation following the discovery of significant irregularities related to the arrival of Haitian minors in the country. The government of President José Antonio Kast has established a crisis task force to determine the whereabouts of several children whose traces were reportedly lost after entering Chile.
According to preliminary findings by judicial authorities, these children arrived in Chile in 2025 under family reunification programs. However, several of them reportedly traveled accompanied by adults whose family relationship to the children was never formally verified by the relevant authorities.
Investigators are now examining the possibility of a human trafficking network involving various intermediaries, including travel agencies, airlines, and legal professionals. While the exact figures vary depending on the institution consulted, Chilean authorities acknowledge that a significant number of Haitian children remain unaccounted for, raising concerns about their safety and living conditions.
In response, Haiti’s Institute for Social Welfare and Research (IBESR in French) has emphasized the importance of strictly following child protection procedures during international travel. The agency stressed the need to ensure the traceability of every child in order to prevent exploitation, abuse, or irregular movement under the guise of family reunification.
