UN: Unexploded Ordnance in Syria Poses Grave Threat to Children

UNICEF has reported over 100 children have been killed or injured in Syria due to unexploded ordnance (UXOs), including mines and bombs, remnants of nearly 14 years of civil conflict. This alarming statistic translates to nearly four casualties per day, with estimates suggesting the actual numbers may be higher.

With approximately 324,000 pieces of UXOs scattered across the country, the ongoing danger has intensified following recent political upheaval and renewed displacement. UNICEF highlighted that half of the reported 422,000 UXO incidents in the last nine years resulted in child casualties.

UNICEF officials stress the urgent need for increased investment in explosive clearance efforts, estimating that tens of millions of dollars could significantly improve safety for the five million children living in contaminated areas. The agency emphasizes that addressing this risk is critical for Syria’s future stability and recovery.