Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell on Attacks Against Schools in Kabul, Afghanistan

NEW YORK, 19 April 2022 – “I am horrified by the brutal attacks targeting school children today in western Kabul, Afghanistan. The coordinated blasts occurred at the Mumtaz Tuition Center and Abdul Raheem Shaheed High School.

“Reports are still being verified, but at least nine children are believed to have been killed and more than fifty injured. The number of casualties is expected to rise.

“On behalf of UNICEF, I send my deepest condolences to the parents and families who lost their beloved children, and I hope that all those who were wounded recover quickly and completely.

“Attacks on children and education facilities constitute grave rights violations. Schools are more than places of learning; they should be havens of protection and peace.

“UNICEF condemns this attack and appeals in the strongest terms to all parties to protect children at all times.”

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About UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to pursue a more equitable world for every child. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.

UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information please contact:
Mackenzie Dougherty, UNICEF USA, 212.922.2551, mdougherty@unicefusa.org