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Another Tragic Consequence of Russian Missile Attacks: Children
Seven people, including a mother and her child, were killed, and many more were injured in Russian missile attacks that hit schools, kindergartens, and residential civilian buildings in Ukraine. The attacks coincided with International Children’s Day, which seeks to celebrate children. In response to the attacks, Denis Krivosheev, Deputy Regional Director, Eastern Europe and Central Asia, stated that “Children deserve to live, grow, learn, and thrive free of the threat of conflict and violence.”
Effects of War on Children
It is devastating to see how children are suffering the tragic consequences of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The war is a constant threat to their safety and mental health and can have lasting consequences on their development and well-being. As stated by Krivosheev, many schools close down to ensure the safety of pupils, which impacts not only children’s access to education but also their ability to build a better future.
The effects of war on children have been documented extensively by various organizations. Children caught in conflicts are more likely to experience mental health issues and have limited access to basic necessities such as food, shelter, and clean water. They also face increased risk of exploitation, including sexual violence, forced labor, and recruitment as child soldiers.
International Criminal Court and Upholding Justice
No child deserves to suffer the consequences of war and violence. It is essential that the international community promptly takes action to ensure justice and accountability. As noted by Krivosheev, Vladimir Putin and Maria Lvova-Belova have been indicted by the International Criminal Court for war crimes against children. It is crucial that they be brought to justice and held accountable for their actions.
The international community must support Ukraine in pursuing accountability for war crimes and other violations of international humanitarian law. It is necessary to investigate all suspected crimes and bring those responsible to justice. The survivors and victims of conflicts deserve truth, justice, and reparations.
In Conclusion
The international community should take collective action to ensure that children are protected from the harmful effects of war and conflicts. Children must not suffer and lose their right to live, learn, and thrive. The tragic consequences of the Russian missile attacks in Ukraine are a reminder of the urgent need to protect children and hold those responsible for war crimes accountable.
<< photo by Piron Guillaume >>