Press Release

UNICEF condemns attack on school in Koya and calls on all parties to respect the Safe Schools Declaration

29 September 2022

Statement attributable to Ms. Sheema SenGupta, UNICEF Representative in Iraq

BAGHDAD, 28 September 2022- “UNICEF abhors and condemns the attack which impacted a school today in a refugee settlement in Koya, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

“At least two children were injured, and one pregnant woman was killed, according to initial reports. UNICEF extends its sincere condolences to the families and friends of those killed and wishes the injured children a fast and complete recovery.

“Attacks on children and their school facility are unacceptable and can be a grave violation of children’s rights. School facilities should always be a safe place for every child, where children can learn, play and grow to reach their full potential.

“UNICEF reiterates its call on all parties to protect children from all forms of violence at all times and under all circumstances, and to respect the Safe Schools Declaration.”

About UNICEF

UNICEF promotes the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.

For more information about UNICEF and its work for children, visit www.unicef.org

Miguel Mateos Muñoz

Miguel Mateos Muñoz

UNICEF
Chief of Communication – UNICEF Iraq
UN staff

Monica Awad

UNICEF
Communication Specialist

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UNICEF
United Nations Children’s Fund

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