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 psychological trauma.

One of the most well-known examples of children suffering in conflict is the Rwandan Genocide in 1994. During this time, an estimated 1 million Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed in just 100 days. Among the victims were an estimated 200,000 children. Many were killed along with their families, while others were orphaned or left behind as survivors.

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 the age of 18. Children in Gaza have faced repeated rounds of violence and conflict since 2000, resulting in significant physical and psychological harm. For instance, during the 2014 conflict between Israel and Hamas, over 500 children were killed, and thousands more were injured or traumatized.

Children in conflict zones face numerous challenges that hinder their ability to grow up healthy and safe. They may be forced to flee their homes, miss out on education, or be separated from their families. They may also be at risk of exploitation, abuse, and neglect.

In conclusion, the phrase "Suffer the little children" takes on a poignant meaning when we consider the reality that children are often the ones who suffer the most in times of war and conflict. From Rwanda to Gaza and beyond, children continue to bear the brunt of violence and instability, making it essential that we work towards creating a world where they can grow up in safety and peace.