2024 marks ‘one of the worst years in UNICEF’s history’ for children in conflict
According to UNICEF’s recent review, over 473 million children—more than one in six globally—now live in conflict-affected areas, a figure that has doubled since the 1990s, Reliefweb.com reported. The year 2024 is projected to be the deadliest on record for children, with 32,990 verified grave violations against 22,557 children, marking the highest counts since monitoring began.
The escalating conflicts have caused 47.2 million children to be displaced, particularly in regions like Haiti, Lebanon, Myanmar, the State of Palestine, and Sudan. Children represent about 30% of the global population but account for 40% of refugees and 49% of internally displaced people.
Education has suffered drastically, with 52 million children out of school in conflict zones. In areas such as Gaza and Sudan, many have missed over a year of schooling due to violence and destruction of educational infrastructure.
Malnutrition rates are alarmingly high, with armed conflict driving hunger and food insecurity. Over half a million people in five conflict-affected countries are living in extreme food insecurity, classified under IPC Phase 5 conditions.
Healthcare access is critically compromised, with 40% of unvaccinated children residing in conflict-affected areas, heightening their vulnerability to diseases like measles and polio.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the urgent need for global action to protect children’s rights and alleviate their suffering, stating, “The world is failing these children.” As 2025 approaches, UNICEF calls for decisive measures to safeguard the futures of millions of children caught in conflict.
