At least 12.2 million children have been killed, maimed, or displaced across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in less than two years. This is equivalent to one child displaced every five seconds and one child killed or injured every fifteen minutes, according to alarming new figures released by UNICEF.
Nearly 110 million children now live in countries across the region affected by conflict. Violence disrupts nearly every aspect of daily life. This includes education and basic health care.
“A child’s life is being turned upside down. This happens every five seconds due to the conflicts in the region,” said Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. “Ending hostilities – for the sake of children – is not optional. It is an urgent necessity and a moral obligation. It is the only path to a better future.”
A REGION IN CRISIS
Conflict has forced more than 12 million children from their homes. Over 40,000 have been maimed. Almost 20,000 have been killed, according to UNICEF estimates.
Already, 1 in 2 children in MENA lives in a conflict-affected country, and the number continues to rise. Homes, schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure are being destroyed or rendered unsafe. Many children endure severe psychological trauma as a result of constant exposure to violence and displacement.
Looking ahead, the humanitarian outlook is deteriorating. UNICEF projects that by 2025, 45 million children in the region will need life-saving assistance, up from 32 million in 2020—a 41% increase in just five years.
FUNDING SHORTFALLS THREATEN AID
Despite the soaring needs, UNICEF is confronting severe funding gaps across MENA operations.
- As of May, Syria faces a 78% shortfall for 2025 appeals.
- The State of Palestine is facing a 68% gap.
- Regional programmes across MENA are under growing financial strain.
UNICEF warns that by 2026, funding is projected to decline by 20 to 25%, a potential loss of up to US$370 million, jeopardizing:
- Treatment for severe malnutrition
- Access to safe water in conflict zones
- Vaccinations against deadly diseases
“As the plight of children in the region worsens, the resources to respond are becoming sparser,” Beigbeder said. “Conflicts must stop. International advocacy to resolve these crises must intensify. And support for vulnerable children must increase, not decline.”
A CALL TO ACTION
UNICEF is urgently appealing to:
- All parties to conflicts to end hostilities and respect international humanitarian law.
- Member States with influence to use their leverage to protect children and essential infrastructure.
- Donors to maintain or increase funding commitments, and for new donors to step forward in solidarity with the region’s most vulnerable children.
“We cannot allow this number to rise,” Beigbeder said. “Ending these conflicts is the only path to a better future.”
Individuals and organizations can support UNICEF’s emergency work by visiting www.unicef.org to learn more, donate, or advocate for stronger protection of children in conflict.
