It's International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: Be empathetic and accountable to children and youth

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression: Established by the UN in 1982, this day reaffirms the international commitment to protecting children's rights and ending the cycle of violence against youth globally

Every day, children living in wars, conflicts and ruthless regimes across the globe are facing unspeakable horrors. "They are not safe sleeping in their homes or playing outside, learning in school or seeking medical care at hospitals. From killing and maiming, abduction and sexual violence, to attacks on education and health facilities, and the denial of the humanitarian assistance that they desperately need, children are being caught in the crosshairs of warring parties at a staggering scale," observes the UN.

The UN brings out the following main aspects of violence against children.

• Killing and maiming remained the most prevalent grave violation, affecting 11,967 children. Most casualties resulted from explosive ordnance, including explosive remnants of war, mines and improvised explosive devices, as well as crossfire and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas.

• Thousands of children were recruited and used by armed forces and armed groups, often in combat or support roles. The sharp rise in cases involving recruitment, abduction and other overlapping violations highlights the growing risks faced by children in conflict settings.

• There is significant rise in conflict-related sexual violence against children, including a dramatic increase in gang rape. Girls were disproportionately affected, while boys were also subjected to sexual violence. The violation remains severely underreported because of stigma, fear of reprisals, lack of services and concerns for survivors' safety.

• Denial of humanitarian access reached alarming levels in 2024. Parties to conflict attacked aid convoys and humanitarian personnel, imposed movement restrictions, interfered with relief operations and created administrative barriers, leaving children without access to healthcare, education, protection and other essential services.

Plight of children and plea to protect their rights: A poem

A little hand, a silent plea,

A heart that cracks, for all to see.

A whispered fear, a hidden tear,

A childhood lost, held ever dear.

See the hurt, the deep, deep ache,

For goodness gracious, for mercy's sake.

Open your eyes, and truly feel,

The wounds that time can barely heal.

Must stand for them, our promise sworn,

From suffering's grip, to be reborn.

Accountable, with hearts so true,

Humane and kind, in all we do.

Protect their rights, their futures bright,

Bathed in hope, and guiding light.

No child alone, no child in dread,

On solid ground, their path ahead.