52 million children out of school, 1 in 6 living in war zones: Unicef

The year 2024 has been one of the darkest years for children trapped in conflict zones, says UNICEF. Over 52 million children are out of school, and the number is only expected to rise.

The United Nations agency has described this year as one of the most devastating in its history for the violation of children’s rights.

UNICEF estimates that 473 million children—more than one in six globally—are living in areas affected by conflict.

Millions have lost access to education in countries like Ukraine, Syria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where schools have been destroyed or repurposed.

In Sudan and Gaza, many children have been out of school for over a year due to ongoing violence.

“The destruction of educational infrastructure and insecurity near schools have exacerbated an already dire situation for children’s education in these regions,” UNICEF stated.

MALNUTRITION AND LACK OF HEALTHCARE RISE

Malnutrition among children in conflict-hit areas has reached alarming levels due to disrupted food systems and displacement.

Additionally, 40% of unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children live in conflict-affected regions, leaving them vulnerable to preventable diseases.

THE MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS

Children exposed to violence, destruction, and the loss of loved ones often face severe mental health challenges. Depression, nightmares, aggressive behaviour, and extreme fear are common reactions among these children, according to UNICEF.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell said, “A child growing up in a conflict zone is far more likely to be out of school, malnourished, or forced from their home—too often repeatedly—compared to a child living in places of peace. This must not be the new normal.”

URGENT ACTION NEEDED

UNICEF calls for immediate efforts to protect children, rebuild education systems, and ensure access to healthcare in conflict zones.

The organisation warns that without action, an entire generation risks becoming “collateral damage to the world’s unchecked wars.”