The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed on September 9th each year to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding education, particularly in conflict-affected countries around the world. This global observance serves as a solemn reminder of the millions of children whose education is at risk due to conflict and violence.

The Day was created through a unanimous resolution by the UN General Assembly in May 2020, urging UNESCO and UNICEF to advocate for the millions of children affected by conflict worldwide.

The resolution establishing the Day was introduced by the State of Qatar and co-sponsored by 62 countries. Each year, the day is observed. The theme for 2024 is, “Education in Peril; The Human Cost of War.”

How Conflict Has Affected Education Globally 

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In conflict zones, schools, students and teachers often become deliberate targets for attacks, severely disrupting education. The 2023 UN Secretary General’s Annual Report on Children and armed conflict shows a grim picture revealing 32,990 verified grave violations committed against 22,557 children. Among them, attackers killed 5,301 averaging almost 15 children each day. 

As of 2024, armed conflict continues to escalate globally, with attacks on education remaining widespread. Between 2022 and 2023, the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack reported approximately 6,000 incidents attacking students, teachers, schools, and higher education institutions. 

During this period, there was over 20% increase in the use of educational facilities by parties to conflict. Over 10,000 students faced death,  abduction, arrest, or harm. 

According to the 2024 UN Secretary General’s Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict,  grave violations against children rose to 21% in 2023 compared to the previous year, including attacks on schools and individuals connected to education. These tragic figures highlight the urgent need for action. 

The Need for Protection

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The General Assembly resolution affirming the Day highlights that governments hold the primary responsibility for protecting children and ensuring access to inclusive, equitable education at all levels. 

Institutions need to increase efforts and funding to create safe school environments, especially during humanitarian emergencies. By safeguarding schools and preventing attacks, governments can reduce the devastating impact of conflict on education.

In many parts of the world, including the occupied Palestinian Territory, the Congo, Myanmar, Somalia, Nigeria, and Sudan , schools are increasingly under attack. Armed groups, some of which are terrorist organizations, account for  half of these attacks. Government forces and unidentified perpetrators account for the rest. 

These troubling developments underscore the daily dangers faced by million students and teachers daily. 

Initiatives To Protect Education In Conflict Areas

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UNESCO, UNICEF, and other UN entities lead efforts to protect education in conflict-affected regions. Through annual observances, international campaigns, and direct intervention, they collaborate with governments, civil society organizations, and local partners to enhance protection mechanisms and ensure access to quality education.

In 2023 alone, over 10,600 children formerly associated with conflict parties received critical reintegration support. This highlights the continued commitment to providing safe and dignified educational opportunities even in the midst of crisis.

The International Day to Protect Education from Attack 2024 features the theme “Education in Peril; The Human Cost of War.” This starkly reminds us that education, a fundamental human right, remains under a threat in conflict zones. It also reaffirms the global community’s commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has access education free from fear and violence.

A Way Forward

As the world observes this day, the international community is urged to strengthen efforts to protect education from attack. Governments, humanitarian agencies, and civil society must unite to safeguard schools and ensure that children can learn in safe environments. 

This involves increasing funding for education in crisis areas, enforcing protection on schools, and holding attackers accountable.

In a world of growing crises, education is a beacon of hope for children, helping them rebuild their lives and their communities.  The International Day to Protect Education from Attack remind us that, even in the darkest times, every child deserves a future defined by learning, not conflict.

As world leaders address these challenges, protecting education is vital for a peaceful and equitable future.