Dhaka, August 3- The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has reported the deaths of at least 32 children in recent violence across Bangladesh. This information was disclosed by UNICEF South Asia Regional Director Sanjay Wijesekera in a statement released on the organization's website and official social media platforms on Friday, August 2.
According to the statement, these fatalities occurred during protests in July. In addition to the tragic deaths, many children were injured, and several were detained. UNICEF condemned the violence, particularly the deaths of children, calling it "horrific."
Sanjay Wijesekera, who recently visited Bangladesh, expressed deep concern over the impact of the recent unrest on children. He emphasized the importance of protecting children from violence and ensuring their safety. UNICEF called for an end to the detention of children, citing international human rights law and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which Bangladesh has ratified. The organization stressed that children should not be detained based on their location, family history, religion, or the activities and ideologies of their families.
Wijesekera further highlighted the importance of education in providing stability and safety for children. He noted that reopening schools and allowing children to reconnect with friends and teachers is the best way to shield them from the negative effects of violence.
UNICEF has welcomed the decision to reopen primary schools in various regions of Bangladesh starting August 4, seeing it as a positive step toward ensuring the well-being and safety of children in the country.
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