Worldwide, approximately 468 million children grew up in a conflict zone last year. The three most dangerous conflict countries for children last year were the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali and Myanmar. They are often killed and maimed and often recruited as child soldiers.
Aid organization Save the Children announced this in a new report on Thursday.
The numbers are likely to continue to rise due to current events such as the conflicts in the Gaza Strip and Sudan, says Managing Director Florian Westphal.
Number of crimes at record high
Nearly 28,000 crimes against children were documented last year, the report continues. This is the highest number since records began in 2005. In 2022, an average of 76 crimes against children were documented per day – 13 percent more than the previous year.
Murders and mutilations are common
According to Save the Children, children are most affected in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Palestinian Territories, Somalia, Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan and Yemen. Among the most common crimes are murder and mutilation.
Recruitment, attacks on schools
According to Save the Children, recruitment of children by armed forces and armed groups increased by 20 percent to 7,610 cases in 2022. Last year, 2,308 attacks on schools and hospitals were documented – 74 percent more than the previous year
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
