UNITED NATIONS, N.Y. – According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), news reports documented the increase in targeted attacks around the world against students, teachers and school facilities in recent years. The attacks have stalled reconstruction efforts, perpetuated conflicts and deprived millions of children the privilege to learn.

A report by the organization and authored by Brendan O’Malley claims there has been an extraordinary global increase in the rape, imprisonment and torture of students and academics; the recruitment of child soldiers; school bombings; teacher assassinations; the occupation and destruction of schools and universities; and a variety of other assaults on education by military and terrorist groups.

The report states that of the 77 million children worldwide, as many as 40 percent who do not attend school live in conflict areas. It also asks national governments and the international community to intensify efforts to promote school security and to bring perpetrators to justice.

In order to reduce violence, some countries have placed armed guards at schools or trained members of the community to contribute in school safety measures. The report also suggests removing students and teachers from school buildings and placing them in smaller arenas, including private homes.

Afghanistan was ranked one of the most affected countries in the world. Recently, the country had a suicide bombing that left 59 students and five teachers dead, leaving others seriously wounded.

O’Malley said that the most important thing the West could do is to donate so the people do not lose hope.

To review the full report, please visit www.unesco.org/education/attack/educationunderattack.pdf.

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