started · updated
United Nations reports surge in attacks on schools and children
On the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, United Nations agencies reported a sharp escalation in violence against schools and children in conflict zones. UNESCO noted that attacks on schools rose by 33% in 2025, with 1,680 verified incidents compared to 1,265 in 2024. These attacks are particularly prevalent in regions such as Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Haiti.
UNICEF reported that 93 million children are currently out of school due to global crises. The agency warned that the loss of education increases children's vulnerability to exploitation, child labor, early marriage, and recruitment by armed groups. Furthermore, over 90% of children in conflict-affected areas are unable to perform basic reading tasks by age 10.
The UN also verified a record 38,558 grave violations against children in 2025, affecting 24,174 individuals. This represents the highest number of violations recorded since monitoring began. In 2024, government forces were responsible for more than 50% of these violations, while non-state armed groups were responsible for the remainder.
Entities
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Reported attacks on educational institutions rose to 8,566, up from 6,000 in 2022 and 2023. www.un.org
- [● 2 SOURCES] The UN verified 38,558 violations affecting 24,174 children in 2025. www.un.org · www.globaldiasporanews.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] UNESCO approved the Preventative Plan of Action to Protect Education from Attack in April. www.un.org
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Government forces were responsible for over 50% of grave violations against children in 2024. dailyoffice.wordpress.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Attacks against schools rose by 33% in 2025, with 1,680 verified attacks compared to 1,265 in 2024. www.globaldiasporanews.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Approximately 93 million children are not attending school due to global crises. www.ilcampanile.it · www.globaldiasporanews.com