Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell on attacks against schools in Kabul, Afghanistan

19 April 2022

NEW YORK, 19 April 2022 – “I am horrified by the brutal attacks targeting school children today in western Kabul, Afghanistan. The coordinated blasts occurred at the Mumtaz Tuition Center and Abdul Raheem Shaheed High School.

“Reports are still being verified, but at least nine children are believed to have been killed and more than fifty injured. The number of casualties is expected to rise.

“On behalf of UNICEF, I send my deepest condolences to the parents and families who lost their beloved children, and I hope that all those who were wounded recover quickly and completely.

“Attacks on children and education facilities constitute grave rights violations. Schools are more than places of learning; they should be havens of protection and peace.

“UNICEF condemns this attack and appeals in the strongest terms to all parties to protect children at all times.”

#####

 

Media contacts

Sema Hosta
Chief of Communication
UNICEF in Türkiye
Tel: + 90 312 454 10 10

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

Follow UNICEF on TwitterFacebookInstagram and YouTube