Global Surge in Violence Against Children in Schools: UN Reports Over 41,000 Incidents in 2024
New york – A harrowing new report from the United Nations reveals a dramatic increase in attacks on education and children caught in the crossfire of conflict zones worldwide. In 2024 alone, over 41,000 incidents of violence against children in schools were reported, signaling a deeply concerning trend with devastating consequences for individuals and entire communities.
The regions most severely impacted include Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory – notably the Gaza Strip - as well as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Somalia, Nigeria, and Haiti. These areas are witnessing a surge in brutality,with a 17% increase in grave violations against children,including abductions,forced recruitment,and other forms of violence.
“Each violation has profound consequences, not only for teachers and young learners, but also for the future of countries and communities,” stated UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a message marking the International Day for Protection of Education this week. “No child should risk their life to learn.”
Escalating Violence & Sexual Assault
The UN’s annual report on Children and Armed Conflict for 2024 doesn’t just highlight the rise in attacks on schools; it also documents a disturbing 34% increase in rapes and other forms of sexual violence perpetrated against children. This escalation underscores the increasingly hazardous environment facing young people in conflict zones.
Gaza: education Disrupted, Lives Upended
The situation in Gaza is particularly dire. With over 2.3 million people displaced by the ongoing conflict, a staggering 660,000 children are currently out of school. Many school buildings have been repurposed as shelters for displaced families, effectively turning places of learning into places of refuge – and vulnerability.
“There is no school now. We live inside the school, where we are displaced, eat and sleep,” explained Diana, a child currently living in a school-turned-shelter in Gaza.
Despite the immense challenges, aid organizations are working to provide some semblance of normalcy. UNICEF reports that over 68,000 children in Gaza are currently benefiting from temporary learning spaces, offering both education and crucial psychosocial support. Innovative solutions,like repurposing pallets into school furniture and transforming boxes into tables and chairs,demonstrate the commitment to keeping education alive even amidst devastation.
A Global Crisis Demanding Action
The UN report serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for increased international cooperation to protect children and ensure their right to education,even – and especially – in times of conflict.The long-term consequences of disrupted education and exposure to violence will be felt for generations, hindering the growth of entire nations.
Keywords: UN, Children and Armed Conflict, Education, Violence Against Children, Gaza, DRC, Somalia, Nigeria, Haiti, UNICEF, antónio Guterres, International Day for Protection of Education, School Attacks, Sexual Violence, child Protection.
