International Day to Protect Education from Attack

September 9, 2020 marked the first observance of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, established through the unanimous adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 74/275, introduced by the State of Qatar and jointly sponsored by 64 countries.

Around the world, attacks on children continue unabated and warring parties continue to flout one of the most basic rules of war: the protection of children. The protracted nature of today's conflicts is harming the future of entire generations of children. Without access to education, the entire generation of children living in conflict will grow up without the skills needed to contribute to their countries and economies, worsening a situation that is already desperate for millions of children and families.

You cannot guarantee a child's right to education in conflict zones without protecting education itself. Education can save lives. When they do not go to school, children become easy targets for abuse, exploitation and recruitment into armed forces and groups. School is a safe place where children can be protected from threats and crises. It is also a critical step in breaking the cycle of crisis and reduces the likelihood of future conflict.