Attacks on education increase during war

According to one study, attacks on schools used for educational and military purposes during armed conflict increased by an alarming 20% ​​in 2022 and 2023 compared to the previous two years. New Report Depend on Global Alliance to Protect Education from Attacks (GCPEA). Schools and universities have been bombed, burned, used for military purposes and targeted. Teachers, academics and students have been injured, killed, abducted and subjected to sexual violence.

Palestine, Ukraine,as well as Democratic Republic of the Congo The United States suffered the most attacks in both years, but GCPEA found that 79 countries reported attacks on schools with educational or military purposes. The following regions also saw increases in attacks: Sudan, Syriaand Nigeria. Last week’s new Report The UN Secretary-General’s report also documents an increase in attacks on education in conflict situations.

In total, GCPEA has documented approximately 6,000 attacks on educational institutions and the military use of schools and universities, which have resulted in the injury or death of more than 10,000 students and educators. In addition to the injury or death of students and teachers, children have lost access to education, causing enormous harm to individuals and society.

While these disturbing figures reflect a rise in armed conflict around the world, efforts to stop attacks are also growing. To date, 120 countries have signed up to the Safe Schools Declarationan international political commitment to protect education during war. By signing the pledge, governments commit to investigate and prosecute attacks that violate international education law. Laws of Warassisting victims, working to continue safe education during war and restoring schooling after attacks, and protecting schools from military use.

Declaration begins WorkAttacking schools or using them for military purposes carries an added stigma. Dozens of countries Military guidelines have been revised to better protect schools. At least three African countries have prosecuted perpetrators of attacks on schools. United Nations peacekeepers have all but stopped deploying in schools.

United Nations Officials urge Countries sign Safe Schools Declaration, ICRC explain It supported the declaration because it increased compliance with the laws of war.

Next week, the UN Security Council visit UNICEF will hold its annual debate on children and armed conflict in New York, aimed at preventing and responding to attacks on educational institutions. This is an ideal time for more countries to endorse the Safe Schools Declaration and commit to better protect educational institutions during war.