The Effects of Armed Conflict on Children and Adolescents: Policy Statement

Lisa Umphrey1, Anik Patel2, Amber Alayyan3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado.

Pediatrics
|February 16, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Children in conflict zones face severe risks, including injury, violence, and disrupted services. Pediatricians are vital in advocating for policy changes and providing trauma-informed care to protect children

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Global Health
  • Child Protection

Background:

  • Over 520 million children live in conflict zones globally.
  • Armed conflict leads to displacement, injury, violence, and disrupted essential services for children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the critical role of pediatricians in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by children in armed conflict settings.
  • To outline strategic interventions for mitigating harm and promoting resilience in affected children.

Main Methods:

  • Review of the impacts of armed conflict on child well-being.
  • Identification of key roles for pediatric health care providers.
  • Synthesis of strategic interventions for child protection and support.

Main Results:

  • Pediatricians must advocate for policy reform and provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed care.
  • Essential interventions include ensuring access to healthcare, mental health services, education, and psychosocial support.
  • Addressing the needs of children in conflict requires a comprehensive, rights-based approach.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric health professionals are essential in safeguarding children's rights and well-being in conflict zones.
  • Strategic interventions can mitigate short- and long-term harm and foster resilience.
  • Promoting a future where all children can thrive, irrespective of conflict, is paramount.

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