UNESCO Warns of 33% Increase in Attacks on Schools During 2025

UNESCO Warns of 33% Increase in Attacks on Schools During 2025
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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has warned of a sharp rise in attacks targeting educational institutions worldwide, reporting a 33 percent increase during 2025 and calling for stronger protection of schools in conflict and crisis zones.

According to UNESCO, the United Nations verified 1,680 attacks on schools in 2025, compared with 1,265 incidents in 2024. The organization said these attacks have placed students, teachers, and education systems at growing risk, while around 258 million children and adolescents have had their education disrupted by crises, including 93 million who were completely deprived of schooling.

UNESCO noted that the most vulnerable groups continue to suffer the greatest impact, with high rates of educational exclusion among refugees, internally displaced children, and children with disabilities. The organization warned that prolonged interruptions to education can increase the risk of permanent school dropout, particularly among girls who face additional risks of exploitation and abuse.

The agency said it is working with partners in more than 20 crisis-affected countries to strengthen school preparedness, maintain learning during emergencies, and support the recovery of education systems. Efforts include protective measures for schools in Ukraine, psychological support for displaced children in Lebanon, temporary learning spaces in Gaza, and education support programs in countries including Yemen, Nigeria, and Haiti.

UNESCO stressed that improving the resilience of education systems must be accompanied by full respect for international humanitarian law, urging all parties to conflicts to protect schools and uphold children’s right to safe and uninterrupted education.