UN report records highest number of attacks on education globally
The United Nations reports a sharp rise in violence against schools, with 8,566 incidents recorded in the last two years, prompting new calls for protective measures and accountability.
Armed conflicts have driven the number of attacks on educational facilities to a record high, according to a new report from the United Nations. The agency documented 8,566 incidents over the past two years, a significant increase from the approximately 6,000 cases reported in 2022 and 2023. This data was released on the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, a date established seven years ago to highlight the vulnerability of schools in conflict zones.
The escalating violence has prompted UNESCO to intensify its efforts to safeguard learning environments. In April, the organization approved a Preventative Plan of Action, which outlines practical steps for schools to prepare for, respond to, and recover from attacks. The plan aims to maintain educational continuity before, during, and after crises by providing safe learning spaces and supporting teachers in high-risk areas.
Rising Violence Against Children
The impact of these conflicts on children has reached unprecedented levels, as detailed in the UN Secretary-General’s Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict. According to the report, 38,558 violations affecting 24,174 children were verified in 2025, marking the highest number of affected children since monitoring began. Killing and maiming were the most widespread violations, impacting over 14,000 children, while others faced recruitment, abduction, or denial of humanitarian aid.
The report notes that fighting is increasingly occurring in densely populated areas, exposing civilians to airstrikes, artillery, and explosive drones. Civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools, and hospitals, has suffered significant damage. The highest number of grave violations was verified in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, followed by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Myanmar, and Somalia. Government forces were identified as responsible for the majority of these verified violations.
Emerging Technological Risks
The UN has warned that emerging military technologies are creating new dangers for children. The growing use of drones and artificial intelligence in targeting processes has enabled faster and more frequent strikes, sometimes with limited human oversight. Secretary-General António Guterres has emphasized that these technologies must remain under human control and comply with international law to protect children’s rights and ensure accountability.
Efforts to support children affected by armed groups continue, with more than 13,000 formerly associated children receiving protection or reintegration support in 2025. However, funding cuts and the withdrawal of some UN peace operations have reduced the capacity to monitor violations and provide this support. Guterres has urged for greater funding for child protection and education, calling for children to be treated primarily as victims rather than combatants.
Looking Ahead To Protection
As the International Day to Protect Education from Attack continues, the focus remains on the resilience of human communities. The resolution establishing this day, presented by Qatar and co-sponsored by 62 countries, called on UNESCO and UNICEF to raise awareness and take action. The coming months will see whether the new preventative measures and calls for technological accountability can effectively reduce the rising tide of violence against education and children.
