One of the most pressing child rights issues in Yemen is the widespread recruitment of children as child soldiers. Children as young as 10 years old have been forcibly recruited by armed groups to fight in the conflict. These children are exposed to violence, exploitation, and psychological trauma, leaving them scarred for life. The international community has condemned the use of child soldiers in Yemen, but the practice continues unabated.
Another major issue facing children in Yemen is the lack of access to education. The ongoing conflict has destroyed schools and disrupted the education system, leaving many children out of school. According to UNICEF, around 2 million children in Yemen are out of school, depriving them of their right to education and limiting their opportunities for a better future.
The humanitarian crisis in Yemen has also led to a severe food and water shortage, putting millions of children at risk of malnutrition and disease. Reports indicate that around 80% of Yemen’s children are in need of humanitarian assistance, with many suffering from acute malnutrition. The lack of access to clean water and sanitation facilities has also led to a cholera outbreak, further exacerbating the health crisis faced by children in Yemen.
The conflict in Yemen has also had a devastating impact on children’s mental health. Children in Yemen have been exposed to continuous violence, displacement, and loss, leading to high levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The lack of mental health services and support has left many children without the help they need to cope with the psychological effects of the conflict.
Child marriage is another major issue facing children in Yemen, with girls as young as 10 being forced into marriage. The conflict has exacerbated this practice, as families struggling to survive may see marrying off their daughters as a way to alleviate economic strain. Child marriage deprives girls of their childhood, education, and health, and puts them at risk of domestic violence and early pregnancy.
Despite these challenges, there are organizations working tirelessly to protect the rights of children in Yemen. UNICEF, Save the Children, and other NGOs are providing humanitarian assistance, including food, water, education, and healthcare, to children and families affected by the conflict. These organizations are also advocating for an end to the recruitment of child soldiers and child marriage, and for the protection of children’s rights in Yemen.
As the conflict in Yemen continues, it is crucial for the international community to prioritize the protection of children’s rights and ensure their safety and well-being. Children in Yemen deserve to live free from violence, exploitation, and deprivation, and it is up to all of us to work towards a peaceful and prosperous future for the children of Yemen.
Nada Foundation
to help girls and women
