Nearly a decade of war in Yemen has turned millions of childhoods into a nightmare. Death, injury, malnutrition, diseases like cholera, which has spread across the country. More than 18.2 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, including 9.8 million children. These crises have heightened the vulnerability of women and children. Both populations are exposed to increased exploitation, violence, and abuse. This increase has led to negative coping mechanisms such as forms of gender-based violence (GBV), child marriage, and child labor.
Amidst these crises, the humanitarian operating environments continue to deteriorate. This is a concern because without urgent, inclusive, and gender-responsive learning opportunities for 6.2 million at-risk children and 7.3 million children in need of protection services, learning losses are likely irreversible. Thousands of children have yet to be reintegrated into formal education system. For those who have been able to continue formal schooling, teachers are few, particularly in rural areas and internal displacement camps where the need is often greatest.
UNICEF is working with partners around the clock to get vital aid to children and their families. Despite significant funding gaps, in 2024 so far, UNICEF’s response has included:
- Reaching 238,094 children and women with access to primary healthcare
- Providing over 250,588 children with access to formal or informal education, including early learning
- Admitting 150,689 children with severe wasting for treatment
- Providing 735,456 people with access to clean and safe water for drinking and domestic needs
- Supporting 104,949 children, adolescents, and caregivers with mental and psychosocial community-based support
UNICEF is appealing for $142 million in 2024 to meet the needs of children and families in Yemen. Now more than ever, your support is urgently needed to help UNICEF continue its life-saving work and prevent the suffering of millions of children. Thank you.
