Join us and #UniteToProtect
In a world burdened with conflict and crisis, the need to safeguard education calls for action to #UniteToProtect. As we approach the 4th International Day to Protect Education from Attack on 9 September 2023, let’s unite and lift our voices: Education is a fundamental right and a pathway to fight against poverty and a beacon of hope for sustainable development and peace.
#UniteToProtect is not just a hashtag. It’s a rallying cry echoing around the globe, a promise that we will stand up against attacks on education. This year, we champion justice. Echoing the vision of Her Highness Sheikha Moza and the State of Qatar who leads this crucial cause.
We shine a light on victims of educational attacks, demanding accountability for attacks on education and safeguarding, and guaranteeing access to education for children and youth in conflict.
Our mission is clear - to shift the narrative, empowering the children and youth affected by conflict to become central voices in the fight for education. We all stand at a pivotal moment, and the choice is ours to make.
So, let's #UniteToProtect. Let's rise for justice, amplify the voices of the young learner, and pledge to every child, every youth, the right to enjoy a safe education.
Together we can share a brighter and prosperous future for our children.
#UniteToProtect
Table of Contents
Education Under Attack 2023
Key Messages
Featured Videos & Stories
- A 9-year-old's Pursuit Of Education Amidst Conflict | Palestine
- Busena's Journey | Uganda
- Stolen Dreams | Ukraine
- I want to go back to school | Burkina Faso
- Hope Amidst Ruins | Yemen
Multimedia Resources & Social Media Messages
Join Us in New York to #UniteToProtect
Education Under Attack 2023
The 2023 Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA) data unveil a grim reality: attacks on education rose to unprecedented levels in 2022, with over 3,000 incidents identified, a 17% increase from the previous year. The war in Ukraine accounted for the most attacks, but countries such as Myanmar and Burkina Faso were not spared from this alarming trend. Over 6,700 students and educators fell victim to violence, including killings, injuries, abductions, and arrests—a 20% surge compared to 2021. The military use of schools escalated, with over 500 reported cases, turning places of learning into battlegrounds and posing grave threats to the lives of students and teachers.
Explosive weapons, both targeted and indiscriminate, featured prominently in these attacks, with some leaving behind unexploded ordnance that continue to endanger lives. A new GCPEA report also highlights the persistent role of non-state armed groups in perpetrating violence against education, as exemplified by Al-Shabab's deadly car bomb attack on Somalia's Ministry of Education in 2022.
However, even in the face of such bleakness, glimmers of hope shine through. The Safe Schools Declaration, endorsed by 118 countries, remains a powerful instrument to protect students, educators, and institutions during armed conflict. Non-state armed groups are also taking steps to safeguard education, such as those in Burkina Faso making unilateral declarations and in Yemen signing a UN action plan to end attacks on schools. As the world marks the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, we must harness this momentum and unite to protect the right to safe and uninterrupted education for all.
#UniteToProtect
Key Messages
Education is a fundamental human right. Together, we must protect it for everyone, every day.
Every boy, girl, and young person has the right to a fear-free education. Let's strive for safety in their quest for knowledge.
Schools are sanctuaries of learning, even amidst conflict. It's essential that we guarantee their safety, allowing every child and youth the opportunity to learn, grow, and fulfill their potential without fear.
We must hold those who violate the right to education accountable to end the cycle of attacks on education.
Conflict undeniably disrupts education but we're not powerless. We have the knowledge and tools to protect and preserve education for children and youth in crisis.
Children and youth affected by conflict aren't just survivors—they're catalysts for change. It's crucial that we amplify their voices and place them at the decision-making table, ensuring their unique insights and lived experiences guide the solutions we build.
This year, our mission is clear: to shift the narrative by placing young people affected by conflict at the heart of our discussions and actions. Let's respect their voices, acknowledge their experiences, and empower them as active participants in protecting and shaping their education.
“I wasn't able to go to school for the whole of last year because of the virus. And this year I dare not go. I want to go to school, but I’m scared. Although the school gates are closed, there are soldiers inside, and I’m afraid of the soldiers. I’m afraid that there might be a bomb blast at our school while we are there.”
A 10-year-old girl from Magway region, Myanmar, in June 2021.
A 9-year-old's Pursuit Of Education Amidst Conflict
Palestine
In Gaza's tumultuous backdrop, 9-year-old Mais Almzainy is an emblem of determination and hope. Despite her school's closure due to safety concerns, she perseveres in her studies, her dreams undeterred by conflict.
With the unwavering support of her mother and the use of digital resources, Mais maintains her resolve to learn and grow. As we witness her journey, we're reminded of the urgency of our #UniteToProtect campaign—every child deserves to learn in a secure environment.
Tweet 1: Meet Mais, a 9-year-old student in Gaza determined to learn amidst conflict. Join @EAA_Foundation and let's #UniteToProtect and seek justice for victims, so children like Mais can keep dreaming of a brighter future. Read her inspiring story: https://shorturl.at/egjmJ
#UniteToProtect
Busena's Journey
Uganda
Fleeing war-torn South Sudan, Busena Ajoba and her siblings found refuge in Uganda. Despite the challenges of life as a refugee, Busena embraced education, inspiring her family and fellow refugees.
Her story, a testament to the power of education and resilience, underscores the Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative mission and the #UniteToProtect campaign. This movement is a call to action to protect the dreams of every child, including refugees, and to foster a future free from fear.
Join us in amplifying Busena's story of hope amidst adversity.
Let her voice be heard far and wide.
Tweet: Busena Ajoba, a refugee turned catalyst for change, embodies the resilience of youth affected by conflict. Join @connectWPDI and @EAA_Foundation to #UniteToProtect, amplify their voices, and empower them through education. Share her story: https://youtu.be/_VMvCPA_7h0
#UniteToProtect
Stolen Dreams
Ukraine
For over 500 days, children in Ukraine have been forced to hide in bomb shelters instead of studying in classrooms.
The conflict has shattered their lives, stolen their education, and left them yearning for a normal life.
Join UNICEF in amplifying the voices of Kateryna, Ann, and Vladyslav, who bravely share their stories amidst the ongoing conflict.
Let's unite to protect their right to education, safety, and a hopeful future. Share this video.
Let their voices be heard far and wide.
Tweet: "Last year was the toughest of my life," says Kateryna, 16, from #Ukraine. War has robbed her and many others of their right to education. Join @UNICEF & @EAA_Foundation, stand with us to #UniteToProtect Education for children caught in conflict. https://youtu.be/0mnXFt78OzU
#UniteToProtect
I want to go back to school
Burkina Faso
Join Save the Children, Alif Naaba, Safiath, and Vieux Farka Touré's heartfelt plea for the right to education in the Sahel region, where children are forced out of school due to ongoing conflict and insecurity.
Now more than ever we need to unite to protect education for the countless voices that cry out for a return to their classrooms, for a future of hope and opportunity.
Share this song. Let their voices be heard far and wide.
Tweet: Every child deserves to learn and build a future. Join @SaveChildrenBF, @EAA_Foundation & the powerful voices of Alif Naaba, Safiath, & Vieux Touré calling us all to #UniteToProtect Education for the children of the Sahel. Let's make a difference! https://youtu.be/6Nno5JqGM4g
#UniteToProtect
Hope Amidst Ruins: Essam and Lina's Pursuit of Education
Yemen
In the heart of Taiz, Yemen, the battered walls of a once-thriving school bear witness to the cruelties of war. But within those walls, the unwavering spirit of Essam* and Lina* shines brightly.
At just 12 years old, these determined students face the daily dangers of conflict but remain undeterred in their quest for education. With the backing of Save the Children, they not only pursue knowledge but also lead initiatives that breathe hope into their surroundings, like painting those scarred walls with uplifting motifs.
Their journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of Yemen's youth, even in the face of adversity, and the importance of supporting their right to learn in safety.
Tweet: In Taiz, Yemen, the walls of Essam* and Lina*'s school tell tales of war's devastation. Yet, at 12, their resilience shines. With @SavetheChildren's support, they're determined to learn. Join @EAA_Foundation and partners to #UniteToProtect their right to education amidst conflict. Stand with Yemen's youth.
"All children have the right to quality education in a peaceful place and environment, and it should not be taken away from them because of violence or conflict."
Heba Nijim, Mais's mother, Gaza, Palestine in May 2023
Multimedia Content and Social Media Messages
Tweet 1: On this International Day to Protect Education from Attack, and every day, join @EAA_Foundation and partners. Let's stand together and pledge to prioritize the protection of education. Every child and youth deserves a peaceful learning environment. #UniteToProtect 🌐✏️📚
Tweet 2: Every day is a chance to safeguard education from attacks and ensure every child's right to learning. We must #UniteToProtect today, tomorrow, and every day after. @EAA_Foundation🛡️🏫
Tweet 3: Education is a basic right, not a privilege. Every boy, girl, and youth should learn without fear of violence or attack. Join @EAA_Foundation and partners. Let's unite to make this a reality for all. #UniteToProtect 🌐👧👦
Tweet 4: Every school should be a sanctuary of growth, even amidst conflict. No war should rob children and youth of their potential or dreams. Join @EAA_Foundation and partners; let's #UniteToProtect.🏫🕊️
Tweet 5: Education isn't a luxury. It's a fundamental right. With @EAA_Foundation and partners, let's affirm this truth and #UniteToProtect it for every child, every youth, everywhere. 🌎✏️📚
Tweet 6: Justice starts with accountability. Let's hold those who attack education responsible and unite to end the culture of impunity. ⚖️🌐 Join @EAA_Foundation and partners, let's #UniteToProtect.
Tweet 7: Children and youth affected by conflict aren't just survivors—they're catalysts for change. Empower their voice. Empower their seat at the table. 🔄✊🌍 Join @EAA_Foundation and partners, let's #UniteToProtect.
#UniteToProtect
Join Us in New York to #UniteToProtect
On the 13th of September, New York City will light up with a beacon of hope and resilience as we come together with a universal mission.
Here's what awaits you:
"Unbreakable Dreams: Protecting Education In Times of Conflict" Exhibition
Step into a world where the sheer power of education clashes with the ravages of conflict. This exhibition, in partnership with esteemed global organizations, provides an immersive experience showcasing the unwavering spirit of those who believe in the transformative power of education, even amidst adversity.
High-Level Conversation and Performance
Dive deep into riveting discussions with renowned personalities and those who have firsthand experience with the brutalities waged against education. As we rally together, uniting for justice for the victims, the day will be punctuated by a live performance from MC Abdul – a rendition you certainly don't want to miss.
Come, be a part of this transformative journey. Together, let's #UniteToProtect and amplify the message that education, no matter the challenges, remains an unbreakable dream.