UNICEF has indicated that 500,000 children in Lebanon are unable to attend school amid ongoing conflicts and economic difficulties. The situation is worsened by Israeli airstrikes and severe food insecurity affecting young children. Despite a ceasefire, over 25% of children remain out of school, highlighting a persistent educational crisis influenced by various socio-economic factors.
UNICEF reported that approximately 500,000 children in Lebanon are currently unable to attend school due to ongoing conflicts and socioeconomic issues. In a recent press briefing in Geneva, Ettie Higgins, UNICEF’s deputy representative in Lebanon, emphasized the severe impact of Israel’s attacks on the population, especially children who are facing significant trauma and hardship.
Despite a declared ceasefire, areas such as Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley continue to suffer from Israeli airstrikes, putting children at risk of physical harm and exacerbating food insecurity. Higgins noted that more than half of children under the age of two in these eastern regions are experiencing severe food insecurity, a situation that has more than doubled since the previous year.
The humanitarian crisis affecting Lebanon is further intensified by economic instability, teacher strikes, and the ongoing repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, collectively weakening the country’s fragile education system. Though a ceasefire was declared in November, over 25% of children remained out of school as of last month, indicating a persistent educational crisis in the nation.
In summary, recent reports from UNICEF reveal the alarming situation for children in Lebanon, with half a million unable to access education due to continuous conflict and socioeconomic challenges. The ongoing Israeli bombardment, coupled with food insecurity and economic instability, underscores the urgent need for international attention and support to restore educational access and improve living conditions for affected children.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
