UN Report: Unprecedented Violations Against Children in Conflict Zones Reach Record Levels

A UN report highlights a dramatic increase in violence against children in conflict zones, particularly in Gaza, the West Bank, and several African and Caribbean countries. The report outlines attacks on children, including recruitment, abduction, and sexual violence, with significant incidents recorded in 2024.

According to a United Nations report released late Thursday, violence against children in multiple conflict zones has surged to unprecedented levels. The highest number of violations occurred in regions such as Gaza, the West Bank, Congo, Somalia, Nigeria, and Haiti.

The annual report by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Children in Armed Conflict noted a 25% increase in grave violations against children. In 2024, children were significantly affected by ongoing hostilities and humanitarian crises, with 41,370 grave violations verified.

In Gaza, Israeli forces were cited for 7,188 grave violations, while Hamas, involved in the ongoing conflict, remains on the UN's blacklist. The report revealed that sexual violence surged by 35% and new entities, like Haiti's gang coalition Viv Ansanm, were added to the blacklist for severe abuses.

(With inputs from agencies.)