At least 32 children die in violence in Bangladesh: UNICEF
Last Updated on August 3, 2024 9:06 am
At least 32 children died in violence during the recent quota reform movement in Bangladesh. This information was given by the United Nations Children’s Organization UNICEF.
Sanjay Wijesekera, UNICEF’s regional director for South Asia, said in a statement on Friday (August 2) confirming the death.
At least 32 children were killed during the violence in July, UNICEF confirmed. Besides, many children were injured and many were detained. It’s a terrible loss.
UNICEF condemns all forms of violence, the statement added. I offer my sincere condolences to the bereaved families who have lost their sons and daughters. Children must be protected at all times. It is everyone’s responsibility.
Expressing concern about the impact of recent violence and ongoing unrest on children, Wijesekera said he was aware of reports of children being detained and reminded authorities that coming into contact with the law or being in conflict can be very frightening for a child.
Sanjay Wijesekera said, “On the basis of research on international human rights law, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child signed by Bangladesh and the impact of detention on children, UNICEF calls for an end to any form of detention of children.” This means that children cannot be arrested or detained because of their presence in any place or because of their previous history, religion and their family’s activities or ideology.’
Regarding children’s education, the official said, UNICEF has welcomed the decision to open primary schools in different regions of Bangladesh from August 4. But still around 1 crore 55 lakh students will not be able to start their studies. The longer children, especially girls, are out of school, the less likely they are to return to school. Their future will be at risk.
Sanjay Wijesekera said in a statement that he had meetings with the Bangladesh government, UNICEF partners and representatives of organizations working for youth. In these meetings, he emphasized on the recognition of children’s right to assemble and peaceful assembly in the UN Charter of Children’s Rights.