I AGREE with Paul Sekfy (“War – a Blight on Humanity,” Page 10, NOTA).
The Ukrainian government has verified the identities of more than 20,600 children unlawfully abducted, deported, or forcibly transferred by Russia since February 2022.
Independent research and international organisations estimate the actual numbers are significantly higher (between 200,000-300,000). Some have been tracked across more than 100 locations and re-education camps.
Two thousand children have been successfully brought back home.
Since October 7, 2023, UNICEF reports the total costs to children as more than 20,179 confirmed killed; more than 44,000 injured, thousands missing or under rubble/collapsed buildings presumed dead; 800,000 displaced across Gaza; and an estimated 60,000 orphaned children who have lost one or both parents.
Since 2021 the Myanmar military junta stands accused of killing more than 1000 children.
In Lebanon, more than 257 children have been killed and more than a thousand injured.
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, there have been 2,420 grave violations against children. In addition, children – some as young as five years old – have been recruited and used by armed groups.
What is happening in the world when children can not grow and develop in a safe environment?
That is of great concern.
Regards,
Beverley Sharpe,
Port Macquarie.
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
