UNICEF Canada

UNICEF welcomes the announcement of a ceasefire in #Lebanon last night. This step offers a critical opportunity to protect children and families who have endured immense suffering. Over the past 46 days, children have paid a devastating price. At least 172 children have reportedly been killed and 661 injured. More than 415,000 children have been displaced. This ceasefire must hold. We reiterate the United Nations Secretary General call for everyone to fully respect the ceasefire and to comply with international law at all times. Children need more than a pause in hostilities – they need a real chance to recover. Recovery will take time as widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, schools and infrastructure will limit children’s access to essential services. Restoring education, healthcare, water systems, and other basic services is a priority. UNICEF continues to work with the Lebanese government and partners to meet urgent needs to support the path to recovery. It calls on all countries and donors to urgently join these efforts to ensure children have access to the protection, care, and opportunities they need - to heal, rebuild their lives, and reach their full potential.

THREE YEARS into the conflict in Sudan and children are still paying the highest price. Since the war began, more than 4,300 children have been killed or maimed and millions displaced. UNICEF has been there through it all — delivering life-saving aid.

Imagine being a mother afraid she won’t be able to hold her children because of bombardments. Imagine being a teenager, constantly on edge, without access to information, worried for their family. These are some of the experiences of children and parents in Iran living through war in the Middle East. UNICEF in Iran is working with partners to engage families and respond to their needs, with a focus on mental health and psychosocial support.

The Middle East conflict is taking a devastating toll on children across the region. UNICEF is on the ground helping children & families across the Middle East. We were there before this escalation, and we will stay long after. 🔗 Read our latest update: ow.ly/6I8k50YC1rK

In #Sudan, conflict has forced millions of children out of classrooms—but thanks to UNICEF-supported catch-up classes, children like Manahil are able to return to safe learning spaces, rebuild routines, and continue their education.

As schools reopen across Afghanistan, millions of girls are still being denied their right to learn. UNICEF Canada Youth Advocate Muzhda shares her story, and why education cannot be conditional, or denied. 🔗 Read the full story on our website

These challenges are real and children are being pulled deeper into the crisis in the Middle East. @UNICEF continues to respond, but the scale of need is increasing quickly. Read today's statement from Deputy Executive Director @TedChaiban for more. ⬇️ unicef.ca/en/press-relea…

This #WorldWaterDay, we’re reminded how something small can make a life-saving difference. Water purification tablets delivered by @UNICEF transform unsafe water into clean drinking water for children and families. 💧Give the gift of water: shop.unicef.ca/page/139915/sh…

🚨 A new report finds progress in reducing child deaths is stalling. Globally, 4.9 million children died before their fifth birthday in 2024—most from preventable causes including the impacts of severe acute malnutrition. Learn more. ⬇️ unicef.ca/en/press-relea…

In #Ethiopia's Afar region, hope arrives in many forms: Under a tree, in a classroom, in the neat rows of community gardens. Wherever it appears, it’s thanks to the perseverance of the community working side by side with partners like @UNICEF. unicef.ca/en/blog/where-…

Children do not start wars, but they pay an unacceptably high price. The military escalation across the Middle East has already had a devastating impact on children. 🔗 Read the full statement on our website: ow.ly/1uYo50Yqnz1

UNICEF is gravely concerned about escalating events in Iran and across the Middle East. Children are being killed and injured as violence intensifies. Children must never be targets. We must collectively amplify calls to protect children and ensure international law is respected.

This weekend’s military escalation in the Middle East marks a dangerous moment for millions of children in the region. Full statement from UNICEF: unicef.link/473y9Hu

“UNICEF is deeply concerned by the reports that children arrested in connection with the recent public unrest in Iran remain in detention." - @UNICEFmena's @E_Beigbeder Full statement: unicef.link/4qOx4KX

When distressing events happen, children look to the adults in their lives for safety and reassurance. 💙 Read the full guidance here: ow.ly/JaTZ50YgBtx

After #CycloneGezani, UNICEF is supporting children, families hardest hit. In collaboration with the Gvt & partners, we are assessing the damage & delivering urgent assistance to meet immediate lifesaving needs, including water & hygiene, health, child protection & nutrition.

Our statement on yesterday's deadly shooting at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. Read the full statement on our website.

UNICEF condemns the attack at an Imambargah in Islamabad yesterday, that reportedly claimed the lives of 6 children. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims. Children must be protected at all times. Read the statement by @PernilleUNICEF: bit.ly/3ZU4sEL

Children in Iran and across across the Middle East and North Africa are facing new levels of violence and conflict just weeks into 2026. 

Children must always be protected.
Read the full statement at our website.

When childhood is shaped by conflict, dreams look different. These drawings show what children in Ukraine hope for most: safety, warmth, and peace. UNICEF is supporting children with life-saving services, but we can’t continue our efforts without your help. 🔗 Donate today.