The Global Assault on Education: A Disturbing Trend
The world is witnessing a shocking rise in attacks on education, with a staggering 40% increase globally. This surge, as revealed by a recent study, is a stark reminder of the fragility of learning environments in conflict-ridden regions. What's even more alarming is the sheer number of students and staff affected, with over 10,600 individuals killed, injured, abducted, or otherwise harmed in 2024 and 2025.
A Global Crisis
The study highlights a disturbing trend, with 83 countries reporting attacks on educational institutions. The situation is particularly dire in countries like Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Haiti, Palestine, and Ukraine, which have seen an alarming number of incidents. For instance, Ukraine's schools have been targeted approximately 900 times, while Palestine has witnessed at least 2,400 attacks on students and staff. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent a crisis that threatens the very foundation of these societies.
The Systematic Nature of Attacks
What makes this crisis even more concerning is the systematic nature of these attacks. Prof Tejendra Pherali from University College London rightly points out that these are not isolated incidents but part of a recurring pattern. The fact that these attacks are becoming more strategic is deeply troubling. It suggests a deliberate attempt to disrupt education, which is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of societal development.
Targeting the Vulnerable
The study also reveals a disturbing trend of targeting vulnerable groups. Women and girls, already facing gender-based discrimination, are being specifically targeted in at least 11 countries. The attack on a girls' boarding school in Nigeria, resulting in the abduction of female pupils, is a chilling example. Additionally, students with disabilities, who already face significant barriers to education, are not spared. The destruction of a school for children with special needs in Lebanon is a stark reminder of the indiscriminate nature of these attacks.
The Role of Military Forces
One of the most concerning aspects is the increasing involvement of military forces and armed groups in these attacks. The occupation of schools and universities has nearly doubled, with over 1,900 recorded cases. This is a blatant violation of international law, including the Geneva Conventions, which should guarantee the protection of educational institutions. The use of high explosives and drone-borne munitions further underscores the severity of these attacks, causing extensive damage and casualties.
A Failing Global Response
Kieran King from War Child UK highlights a critical point: the international community's response has been inadequate. The rise in attacks on education coincides with a 60% increase in children living in conflict zones since 2010. This is a clear indication that existing measures are failing to protect the most vulnerable. The weakening of the multilateral system and the lack of consequences for war crimes contribute to this crisis. Aid cuts, particularly from major donors like the US and the UK, further exacerbate the situation by reducing support for humanitarian action.
A Call for Action
The Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA) rightly emphasizes the need for immediate action. Lisa Chung Bender, the director of GCPEA, urges states to end the military use of schools and strengthen legal protections. This includes accountability for attacks on education and investment in monitoring and early warning systems. The current situation is not inevitable; it is a result of global inaction and a failure to prioritize education in conflict zones.
A Broader Perspective
This crisis is not an isolated issue but part of a broader trend of increasing global conflicts. The Uppsala University's conflict data program recorded the highest number of conflicts since 1992, with 65 conflicts in 2025 alone. This surge in violence has led to a sharp increase in fatalities, making 2025 the second bloodiest year since the Rwandan genocide in 1994. The assault on education is just one manifestation of this broader crisis, and it demands a comprehensive global response.
In conclusion, the rise in attacks on education is a global emergency that requires immediate attention. It is not just about protecting schools and universities but safeguarding the future of entire generations. The international community must act decisively to hold perpetrators accountable, strengthen legal protections, and ensure that education remains a safe and accessible right for all, even in the most challenging circumstances.
