Syria’s Ongoing Dangers: Over 100 Children Killed by Explosive Remnants
Syria faces a humanitarian crisis from unexploded ordnance, with UNICEF reporting over 100 child fatalities in the past month. UXO incidents exceed 422,000 since 2011, affecting millions of children and necessitating urgent demining efforts and funding. Life-altering injuries among survivors underscore the need for comprehensive support and education.
Syria’s ongoing humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by the devastating impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO), particularly affecting children. According to UNICEF, over 100 children were reported killed by these hazardous remnants of conflict just last month. Communication Manager for Emergencies, Ricardo Pires, highlighted that between 2011 and 2020, approximately 422,000 incidents of UXO were documented across 14 Syrian governorates, with many resulting in tragic outcomes for young victims.
The situation has reached alarming levels, with UNICEF reporting an average of nearly four children killed or injured by UXO daily in December. Mr. Pires noted that about five million children reside in areas contaminated with these lethal remnants, which poses an ever-present threat. As escalating conflicts force thousands to flee, the dangers associated with UXO continue to rise, especially in regions such as Damascus and Homs where weapons have been abandoned.
Furthermore, the impact of these explosives extends beyond immediate fatalities; survivors often incur severe, life-altering injuries that hinder their ability to return to school or access healthcare. UNICEF has called for enhanced demining efforts, increased mine-risk education, and ongoing support for affected individuals. Such initiatives require substantial financial backing, estimated to be in the tens of millions of dollars, to make ground in Syria safe for children once again. On a concluding note, addressing the UXO crisis is deemed essential not only for safeguarding lives but also for restoring Syria’s former stability as a middle-income nation.
The alarming issue of UXO in Syria has become a critical humanitarian concern due to years of civil conflict leaving behind mines and explosives. With much of the country affected, children face disproportionate risks in these hazardous environments. International organizations, particularly UNICEF, are raising awareness about the consequences of UXO and advocating for urgent global action to finance demining initiatives, safety education, and survivor assistance.
In summary, the legacy of landmines and unexploded ordnance in Syria poses a grave threat to the safety and well-being of children, resulting in significant casualties and profound life disruptions. Urgent action is necessary, including robust funding for demining initiatives to protect vulnerable populations and facilitate recovery efforts in the region. The international community must prioritize these humanitarian needs to lay the groundwork for a safer and more stable Syria.
Original Source: news.un.org
