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Children in Disasters
Children are the most photographed and least listened to victims of disasters. An estimated 75 million children every year have their lives affected by natural disasters or by conflicts.
Research shows that during a disaster the physical survival needs of children including safe water, food, shelter, clothing and primary health care are usually given a very high priority. However, other needs and rights, which are also essential for children, like protection from abuse and harm, education, rest, privacy and the right to participate in matters that affect them are often overlooked.
Exposure to a disaster is a traumatic experience for any person, but particularly so for a child. Childhood is a unique development period when an individual’s main physical, mental, emotional and social development and growth takes place. Damage at this stage often cannot be overcome later, further weakening vulnerable communities.
Sources of information:
The Inter-Agency Network for Education in Emergencies (INEE) is a global, open network of non-governmental organizations, UN agencies, donors, practitioners, researchers and individuals from affected populations working together within a humanitarian and development framework to ensure the right to education in emergencies and post-crisis reconstruction.
Inclusive Education of Children At Risk
The Children in Disasters' manual, "Helping the Children - A Practical Handbook for Complex Humanitarian Emergencies"
Education in Emergency, Crisis and Reconstruction UNESCO portal
Children in disasters Plan International
UNICEF's role in emergencies
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