UNICEF Warns Wars in Middle East and North Africa Upend Children’s Lives

UNICEF Warns Wars in Middle East and North Africa Upend Children’s Lives
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According to UNICEF, over the past two years, conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa have killed, injured, or displaced more than 12 million children, the organization’s website reported. Currently, 110 million children in the region live in countries affected by war, where homes, schools, and healthcare facilities have been damaged or destroyed.

“A child’s life is being turned upside down every five seconds due to these conflicts,” said Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, on Tuesday.

UNICEF projects that 45 million children in the region will need humanitarian aid in 2025, marking a 41% increase since 2020. However, critical funding shortages are hindering essential programs. As of May, Syria faces a 78% funding gap, and the State of Palestine a 68% gap for their 2025 appeals. The financial strain on UNICEF’s regional efforts is growing.

Looking ahead to 2026, funding for the Middle East and North Africa is expected to drop by 20 to 25%, potentially creating a shortfall of up to $370 million. This would threaten vital initiatives such as severe malnutrition treatment, safe water provision in conflict zones, and immunization campaigns.

“As children’s suffering worsens, resources to assist them are dwindling,” Beigbeder said. “Conflicts must end. Global efforts to resolve these crises need to intensify, and support for vulnerable children must grow, not shrink.”