Protecting Children: Healthcare and Safety in Conflict Zones

This article was exclusively written for The European Sting by Mr. Bibek Shrestha is a fourth year medical student from Maharajgunj medical Campus, Institute of Medicine Maharajgunj medical campus, Nepal. He is affiliated with the International Federation of Medical Students Associations (IFMSA), cordial partner of The Sting. The opinions expressed in this piece belong strictly to the writer and do not necessarily reflect IFMSA’s view on the topic, nor The European Sting’s one.

In times of conflict, children are among the most vulnerable members of society. Their safety and access to healthcare become critically compromised as violence disrupts infrastructure, displaced communities, and hampers humanitarian aid efforts. Across the globe, from Syria to Yemen, from Afghanistan to South Sudan, millions of children are caught in the crossfire, facing severe threats to their well-being. Addressing child safety and healthcare in conflict zones requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses immediate emergency response, long-term sustainable solutions, and international cooperation.

One of the most pressing concerns in conflict zones is the protection of children from violence, including recruitment into armed forces, sexual exploitation, and physical harm. Armed groups often target children, forcibly conscripting them or subjecting them to various forms of abuse. Protecting children from such atrocities requires concerted efforts from governments, humanitarian organizations, and peacekeeping forces to enforce international laws safeguarding children’s rights.

Moreover, access to healthcare is severely disrupted in conflict-affected areas, exacerbating the vulnerability of children. Hospitals and clinics are damaged or destroyed, medical supplies are scarce, and healthcare workers are at risk of violence. As a result, children suffer from untreated injuries, preventable diseases, and malnutrition. Ensuring access to basic healthcare services, such as vaccinations, maternal care, and treatment for injuries, is essential to saving lives and preventing long-term health complications.

Humanitarian organizations play a crucial role in delivering aid to conflict-affected areas, providing medical assistance, food, shelter, and psychosocial support to children and their families. However, they often face challenges such as funding shortages, logistical constraints, and insecurity, hindering their ability to reach all those in need. Donor countries and international institutions must increase their support for humanitarian efforts and facilitate unhindered access for aid organizations to deliver assistance to conflict zones.

Furthermore, investing in education and psychosocial support for children is vital for their well-being and long-term development. Conflict disrupts schooling, leaving children without access to education and exposing them to risks such as recruitment into armed groups or early marriage. By providing safe spaces, trauma counseling, and educational programs, we can help children cope with the psychological impact of conflict and build resilience for the future.

International cooperation is essential for addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting lasting peace and stability. Diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts through dialogue and negotiation must prioritize the protection of children and their rights. Additionally, accountability mechanisms, such as the International Criminal Court, play a crucial role in holding perpetrators of grave violations against children accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, protecting children’s safety and ensuring their access to healthcare in conflict zones is a moral imperative and a collective responsibility. By prioritizing the protection of children, investing in healthcare infrastructure, supporting humanitarian efforts, and promoting peace and stability, we can mitigate the impact of conflict on children and build a more secure and prosperous future for generations to come.

About the author

Bibek Shrestha is a fourth year medical student from Maharajgunj medical Campus, Institute of Medicine Maharajgunj medical campus. He is associated with Nepal medical students’ society which is affiliated to International Federation of Medical Students’ Association.