UNICEF: Afghan children suffer most from crisis in their country

UNICEF has highlighted the dire situation faced by children as a result of the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan. Amid escalating conflict and instability, children are bearing the brunt of the crisis, with their lives and well-being severely impacted. This year, some 2.3 million Afghan boys and girls are expected to face acute malnutrition. Of this number, 875,000 will need treatment for severe acute malnutrition, a life-threatening condition. 

According to UNICEF, the situation for Afghan children has rapidly deteriorated, leaving them vulnerable to numerous challenges. Around 840,000 pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers are likely to experience acute malnutrition, jeopardizing their ability to give their babies the best start in life. Meanwhile, roughly 1.6 million Afghan children – some as young as six – are trapped in child labor, working in dangerous conditions just to help their parents put food on the table. And their education used to be a symbol of hope, children’s right to learn is under attack,

 Widespread violence and displacement have disrupted their access to necessities, including food, clean water, and healthcare. Many children have been forced to flee their homes, resulting in a significant increase in the number of internally displaced children and refugees.

Education has been significantly disrupted, depriving countless children of their right to learn and thrive. Schools have been targeted and destroyed, while others have been turned into shelters for displaced families. The lack of educational opportunities further perpetuates the cycle of poverty and denies children the chance to build a better future. Moreover, children are facing heightened protection risks, including recruitment into armed groups, child labor, and forced early marriages

The international community has been called upon to support UNICEF and its partners in providing immediate assistance to the affected children and families. Urgent funding is needed to ensure the provision of life-saving aid, safeguard children’s rights, and help them recover from the trauma they have endured.

–Re-reported the article from the story originally published in UN News