Regional Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Adviser @ World Vision | Regional Psychological Consultant @ IFRC | Licensed Clinical Psychologist
The recent escalation in North-West Syria has once again placed children in severe jeopardy. Since the conflict began in 2011, these young lives have been disproportionately affected, facing a multitude of risks that threaten their safety and well-being. Since October 14, 2024, hostilities have significantly escalated in North-West Syria, with the first series of airstrikes reported in three months. At least 122 attacks have been reported in the first three days, primarily targeting Idleb and western Aleppo, including residential areas, local shops, and farmland. At least 12 civilians, including three children aged one, three, and eight, have been killed, and 43 others injured as of October 16, 2024. The situation remains highly fluid, with 14,000 people displaced in just three days from November 26 to 28, 2024. Since the start of 2024, 46 civilians, including 12 children, have been killed, and 180 others, including 67 children and 21 women, have been injured. Children in this region are exposed to grave child protection concerns, including the risk of recruitment by armed groups, exploitation, and gender-based violence (GBV). Additionally, the ongoing conflict severely impacts their mental health, leading to increased anxiety, depression, psychological distress, potential trauma and other mental health problems. It's crucial to address these risks by prioritizing child protection measures and ensuring access to mental health and psychosocial support. This is essential to help children cope with their experiences and rebuild a sense of normalcy. We must act now to safeguard the future of Syria’s children. Protecting their rights and well-being is not just an ethical obligation but a critical investment in the stability and recovery of the region. #ChildProtection #GBV #MentalHealth #MHPSS #ProtectOurChildren #Syria
The recent humanitarian crisis in Syria has reached a critical point, with over 100 attacks, more than 14,000 people displaced, and over 20 casualties as conflict intensifies. Thousands are in urgent need of aid. World Vision Syria Response's Director, Emmanuel Isch, expresses concerns over the current situation.
