420 million children are currently forced to grow up in the midst of armed conflict.

Beside the threat to their lives, it endangers also their mental health as well as their secure environment of a home, regular food, education, family and unluckily many more.

• - In the Central African Republic, a dramatic resurgence in fighting has enveloped much of the country, with two out of three children in need of humanitarian assistance.
• - A recent surge in violence in the border region between Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger has left 1,478 schools closed.
• - In Palestine, over 50 children were killed and hundreds more injured this year, many whilst demonstrating against deteriorating living conditions in Gaza. Children in Palestine and Israel have been exposed to fear, trauma and injuries. [Source]

Children who grow up during war, armed conflict and terrorism experience dangerous events that threaten their mental health and normative age-related transitions. Growing up in these unstable and perilous environments is associated with psychological difficulties both among children and adolescents. [Source]

This includes feelings of fear, anxiety and depression.

Kids who flew need much more than food, education and a roof over their head. They need support, healthy relationships and a stable environment. [Source]

If you want to get started now, check out our current Peace Education Handbook.

Do you want to learn more? Check out our other post for 30 Days of Children's Rigts!

1. 1. Kick Off
2. 2. Article 7 & 8