Terrorism

WAR AND ITS EFFECT ON CHILDREN

By ISHANI RANASINGHE

"The war effects us directly and indirectly, whatever we do, it is with us…. When playing, when thinking about our We cannot escape its reach. Like a rubber ball pushed under water, it will surface again and again"

The UN convention on the rights of the child defines as individuals below 18 years. All Sri Lankan children are exposed to the reaching effect of a war they inherit. But sadly for every child the current situation in the country is " normal" and unfortunately there is no other alternative. There is a major concern not just with direct effect of the conflict, but also with the long-term impact of violence on children. It is known that children are deeply affected by not only what is done to them but by what they see done to the others, mainly their loved ones. For example a young girl of ten can be quoted "My mother was bathing near the well that evening. There was an explosion; she died in front of my eyes. I can't stop thinking about it"

Thousands of children have lost either one or both of their parents as a result of this conflict. They have lost the security of their homes, of their future. Children who become victim of violence tend to inflict violence on others Armed conflicts are the most extreme form of violence against children and deny them a right to a childhood. Most of the children are afraid of the country future. While most of them said they were constantly reminded of the war. These children are afraid of travelling into the future. Because of this there is a major threat for the future All adults share a responsibility for protecting children from armed conflict. By protecting the children we protect the future. To show children we care as a first step we wore a safety pin. Now its time to join hands and take it few more steps further. Let's lend a hand to secure a future of love care and security. A future where children can strive ahead without fear or doubt in their minds.