DILI, 25 June 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste has expressed deep concern over a record number of grave violations against children in armed conflicts, including killings, recruitment, abductions, sexual violence and denial of humanitarian assistance, during a United Nations Security Council open debate on children and armed conflict.
The debate, titled “Reasserting International Legal Protections for Children in Armed Conflict: Strengthening the Protection of Education and the Prevention of Grave Violations,” brought together member states to assess rising threats to children in conflict zones and the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks.
Timor-Leste emphasized that schools must remain safe civilian spaces and should never be used for military purposes or targeted in conflict.
“Attacks on education deprive children of learning opportunities and expose them to greater risks such as exploitation, trafficking, and gender-based violence,” said in a statement.
Timor-Leste highlighted the destruction of education in places such as Gaza and condemned restrictions on girls’ education in Afghanistan. It called for stronger measures to protect education during conflict, arguing that safeguarding schools and children is essential for recovery, peacebuilding, and a more secure future.
TATOLI
