UN warns of mounting mental health emergency for children in Palestine – JURIST

The United Nations warned Thursday that children in Palestine are facing a mounting mental health emergency amid escalating violence, displacement, and personal loss, with over one million children in Gaza now in urgent need of mental and psychological or social support. The crisis is compounded by rising risks, such as a resurgence of child marriage, exploitation, and long-term trauma.

According to Sima Alami, adolescent and youth programme officer at the UN agency for sexual and reproductive health, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), more than 1 million children in Gaza need mental health and psychosocial support services, as over two years of unrelenting violence and displacement have devastated communities in Gaza and the West Bank.

Earlier in March, the UNFPA reported that “displacement, poverty and the collapse of social, legal, health and protection systems fuel insecurity and force families into impossible choices.” Reports also suggest that girls exposed to child marriage face increased risks of sexual and gender-based violence. Stripping girls of education and personal autonomy, coupled with economic desperation and insecurity, is fueling a rise in child marriage.

Children are haunted by constant exposure to airstrikes, drone surveillance, and often the destruction of their homes. Additionally, the loss of family members, disrupted schooling, and loss of community contribute to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.

Amid the crisis, the UNFPA has been actively supporting girls in Palestine by providing mental health and psychosocial services, safe spaces, and protection programs aimed at reducing challenges such as gender-based violence.

The UN has raised concerns about unlawful killings and attacks on civilian areas, which may constitute gross violations of international humanitarian law. This crisis in Palestine also undermines obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, particularly Articles 24, 28, and 19, which guarantee children’s right to health, education, and protection from exploitation.