The UN Children’s Fund is expressing deep concern about the situation of children in Southern Kyrgyzstan, the scene of unrest and fighting since last week.

UNICEF has received distressing reports, including photographs, of children being displaced, traumatized, separated from family members, and even being killed.

Massive internal displacement has been reported, with thousands of ethnic Uzbecks – primarily women and children – attempting to cross the border. It is believed that more than 20,000 families are likely to be affected.

UNICEF is working with other UN agencies and partners to make preliminary assessments of the situation and has started preparations for an emergency response. Priority areas will include child protection, health, and water, sanitation and health.

Without adequate clean water, sanitation and hygiene, the risk of diarrhoeal diseases is very high and children under 5 years of age are the most vulnerable. The prevailing security situation, however, is limiting access to affected areas and will hamper the provision of humanitarian aid.

UNICEF urges all parties to take all necessary measures to protect children, who are always the most vulnerable in conflicts, and stresses that no children should be involved in conflict or participate in demonstrations.

How you can help
New Zealanders can support UNICEF NZ’s Emergency Fund (online donation) or call 0800-800-194