MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – The United Nations has released its annual report on Children and Armed Conflict, highlighting an alarming escalation in violence against children in war-torn regions across the globe.
The report paints a grim picture, identifying countries such as Nigeria, Somalia, the Occupied Palestinian Territory (including Gaza), the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Haiti as some of the most dangerous places in the world for children.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the findings as a “tragic reflection of our times,” emphasizing that thousands of children continue to suffer unimaginable atrocities, including murder, sexual violence, forced military conscription, and abduction.
A Disturbing Increase in Attacks on Education
The report documents over 6,000 attacks on schools, students, and educators between 2022 and 2023—representing a staggering 44% increase from the previous year. Alarmingly, schools are increasingly being repurposed for military use, with a 20% rise in educational institutions being occupied or used by armed forces.
These attacks not only threaten the lives of children but also cripple their access to education and long-term development. UNESCO has expressed deep concern over the rising number of attacks and is planning a high-level summit in Geneva with its partners to address the urgent need to protect schools and preserve access to education in conflict zones.
Casualties and Violations by Country
In 2024 alone, more than 10,000 children were killed, kidnapped, detained, or otherwise harmed in conflict-affected areas. The report ranks countries by the number of verified grave violations against children:
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Occupied Palestinian Territory (including Gaza): 8,554 violations
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Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): 4,043 violations
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Somalia: 2,568 violations
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Nigeria: 2,436 violations
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Haiti: 2,269 violations
These figures represent only confirmed cases; actual numbers are likely much higher due to underreporting and limited access in conflict zones.
Sexual Violence and Forced Recruitment on the Rise
One of the most disturbing trends outlined in the report is the 34% increase in incidents of sexual violence against children, including rape and exploitation. Many children, especially girls, continue to face sexual abuse, trafficking, and forced marriages under the shadow of war.
In addition, thousands of children were forcibly recruited and used by armed groups for combat, logistical support, or labor. Over 3,000 children were also detained—many without legal protections or access to basic rights.
Threats to Humanitarian Workers Escalate
The United Nations Office for the Rights of the Child also raised concerns over the growing risks faced by humanitarian aid workers in conflict zones. In 2024, numerous international staff members were killed or targeted, underlining the increasingly dangerous conditions for those delivering life-saving aid and protection to vulnerable populations.
Hope Amid the Tragedy: Reintegration Efforts Show Progress
Despite the troubling statistics, the report offers a glimmer of hope. More than 16,500 children formerly associated with armed groups were rescued and enrolled in reintegration programs during 2024 alone. These initiatives provide psychological support, education, and vocational training to help children rebuild their lives.
Since 2005, over 200,000 children have been separated from armed groups and reintegrated into society—a testament to the effectiveness of sustained international efforts in child protection and post-conflict recovery.
A Call to Action
The UN is urging the international community to strengthen protections for children in armed conflict and to hold perpetrators accountable. With violence and instability increasing in many regions, the organization stresses that action must go beyond condemnation.
The upcoming Geneva summit aims to foster global consensus on practical steps to safeguard schools, support victims, and prevent further abuse of children caught in war.
“Every child deserves to grow up in peace, go to school safely, and live without fear. We must act now—not with words, but with meaningful and sustained action,” the report concludes.