UNICEF chief says failure of Middle East talks could put more children at risk
12 October -- The Executive Director of the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) today called on adults in the Middle East to do everything in their power to protect minors and reach a negotiated end to the violence.
"UNICEF is concerned that a failure of negotiations could lead to increased peril for all the children of the region," said Executive Director Carol Bellamy. "Both Palestinian and Israeli children have been promised peace for too long to let it slip away," she said.
According to UNICEF, in recent days, 27 children under the age of 18 have been killed in the violence, with more than 1,200 others injured, many critically.
The Executive Director said if the conflict could be held in check, Palestinian and Israeli children could "build the better future to which they are entitled."
Since the peace process began in 1993, UNICEF has been working from its Jerusalem office to encourage dialogue among children and adolescents. Today, Ms. Bellamy said that work would continue, but warned that "until the adults of the region take responsible action, children and youth will continue to suffer injury, loss of life and lasting trauma."
The agency has also been promoting programmes for Palestinian women and children throughout the region since 1981. Ms. Bellamy said that even amid the current conflict, UNICEF would continue working with its partners in the West Bank and Gaza. Activities include providing emergency medical supplies, training volunteers to counsel families dealing with conflict-associated trauma, and supporting adolescents in their own efforts to make peace.
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