Unprecedented Levels of Violence Against Children in Armed Conflict: Ensuring Education in the Crossfire

Strategic Insights -

The past 12 months have seen a staggering 44 percent surge in attacks on schools, resulting in the death, abduction, and trauma of thousands of teachers and students. Despite the importance of education, it has become a target in armed conflicts, leaving thousands of children at risk. The United Nations is working tirelessly to stop this scourge and ensure every child can access their basic right to education.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of attacks on schools has increased by 44 percent in the past 12 months, resulting in the death, abduction, and trauma of thousands of teachers and students.
  • The United Nations has condemned the surge in violence against children in armed conflict and is working to protect schools as places of safety.
  • The Safe Schools Declaration is a critical tool in protecting education from the effects of conflict, and countries must invest in education systems that can reach every child.
  • The United Nations is calling on all parties to conflict to respect schools as places of safety and hold accountable those responsible for attacks.
  • The pen, the book, and the classroom are all mightier than the sword, and it is essential to protect the fundamental right of every child to learn in safety and peace.

Statistics:

  • 44 percent surge in attacks on schools in the past 12 months (UN Information Service)
  • Thousands of teachers and students have been killed, abducted, or traumatized by attacks on schools (UN Information Service)
  • The Safe Schools Declaration has been endorsed by over 90 countries, but more work is needed to ensure its implementation (UN Information Service)

Sources:

  • "No child should risk death to learn" press release by the United Nations Information Service (no date)
  • United Nations Information Service
  • Safe Schools Declaration