Suffer the little children. It is ever the way, from Rwanda to Gaza

The phrase "Suffer the little children" is a quote from the Bible, specifically from the book of Matthew (19:14), where Jesus says, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." However, this phrase has taken on a different meaning in the context of war and conflict.

Children are often the most vulnerable victims in times of war and conflict. According to UNICEF, an estimated 250 million children live in areas affected by armed conflict worldwide. In such situations, they face various forms of violence, including physical harm, sexual violence, recruitment into armed forces or armed groups, and separation from families.

One notable example of children suffering in conflict is in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide, where an estimated 12,000 children were killed, representing about 10% of all child deaths during that period. The children were targeted due to their ethnicity or because they were orphans left behind after their families were killed.

Another ongoing conflict where children continue to suffer is in Gaza. According to Save the Children, more than half of the population in Gaza is under 18 years old, making it one of the youngest populations in the world. Children in Gaza have faced repeated cycles of violence and displacement, resulting in significant psychological trauma, malnutrition, and limited access to education.

Children in conflict zones often face challenges in accessing basic necessities such as food, water, shelter, and healthcare. They may also be forced to flee their homes, leaving behind everything they know and love. In some cases, they may be separated from their families or become orphaned.

Additionally, children in conflict zones may be recruited into armed forces or armed groups, often through coercion or deception. According to UNICEF, there were an estimated 300,000 children associated with armed forces or armed groups as of 2020. These children may be used as soldiers, cooks, porters, or sex slaves.

In conclusion, children are disproportionately affected by war and conflict, often suffering physical harm, psychological trauma, and loss of basic necessities. The examples of Rwanda and Gaza illustrate the devastating impact of war on children, highlighting the need for increased efforts to protect and support them during times of conflict.