Stories from Gaza

There was none the next day

Only three years old

Breathed from my child

#FriChildhood

Every fifth child grows up in war or conflict!

We appeal to you to make your voice heard. To appeal to organizations, national and international communities to jointly condemn all violence, war and armed conflict, to act with determination and awareness of the indescribable burden they place on our world's most vulnerable fellow human beings – the children.

As a community actor committed to the well-being of children, we appeal to you to consider the countless lives affected by conflict and the long-term damage it causes for generations to come. We must redouble our efforts to seek peaceful solutions, invest in diplomacy and work continuously to prevent new conflicts and outbreaks of war. Only then can we begin to heal the wounds in our world and give children the opportunity to grow up in a more peaceful, safe and hopeful environment.

We urge you to act in the effort to secure a brighter future for all children, one where they can experience childhood in its truest form, with joy and faith in the future. Use your power and your resources to work for peace, use your voice! Every single one of us has a voice, how we use it makes a difference today and in the future. 

Together we can create a better future for children, where their dreams can flourish without the dark shadow of violence, war and conflict. For every voice that is heard, we are one step closer to a childhood free from conflict, war or violence. Every time you share a post on social media, send a letter to a politician, participate in the political debate or in a demonstration, you make a real difference. Take a stand against violence, conflict and war, give children hope for a bright future that they so well deserve.

Consequences

450 million children are affected by war and conflict!

Violence, war and conflict are abstract concepts, but they are terrifying realities that cast long shadows over children's lives. At the time of writing, countless innocent children are experiencing fear far beyond their age. They witness the destruction of their homes, the loss of loved ones and an attack on their sense of safety and security. Children bear witness to violence and chaos and experience a world that no child should ever have to know.

The physical and psychological scars these children carry are deep. Malnutrition, disease and physical and psychological injuries become their dark companions when access to basic needs decreases. Their minds carry the emotional traumas of displacement, fear and the terrifying sound of bombs and gunfire.

The children's opportunities for healthy development are hindered and their dreams will forever be affected. The consequences of violence, conflict and war on children extend far into the future. It is our moral duty to protect and nurture these young lives. They are future leaders, community builders, innovators and peace brokers. When we allow violence, war and armed conflict to continue, we are failing our basic responsibilities and jeopardizing the possibilities for a more peaceful and just world.

The violence in Sweden

"16 percent of Sweden's primary school students – 196,000 children – go to a school where there has been one or more shootings within a 500 meter radius in the last three years." - SVT 2022

Violence in Sweden is a topic that has received a lot of attention and discussion in recent years. The country, known internationally for its peaceful and safe environment, has experienced an increase in violent crime, especially in major cities. It is important to understand that violence is not a simple issue with a single cause, but there are many factors that work together to create a complex situation.

One of the most obvious factors is socio-economic inequality. Sweden, like many other countries, experiences a gap between rich and poor, and this can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and frustration among those who feel marginalized. This gap can create tension in society and increase the risk of violent crime.

Another factor is the increasing use of drugs. Drugs and the criminal activity often associated with them can be a catalyst for violent crime. This applies to both violence in connection with drug-related gang fights and violence in the home, where addiction can be a contributing factor.

The police's resources and ability to prevent and combat violent crime also play an important role. There has been a debate about the capacity and effectiveness of the police, and whether they have sufficient resources to deal with increasing crime.

To combat violence in Sweden, a coherent and multifaceted strategy is required. This includes reducing socio-economic inequality, improving integration, increasing resources for law enforcement and strengthening prevention. It is also important to continue working to reduce access to illegal drugs and promote education and awareness of the consequences of violence.

Violence is a complex and serious issue, and a holistic approach is required to deal with it effectively. Sweden has historically been known for its peaceful social structure, and it is important to work together to restore the sense of safety and security that is so important to its citizens.

Support us in our work

GIVE CHILDREN A DEMOCRATIC AND PEACEFUL FUTURE!

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD VIA SOCIAL MEDIA

#FRI CHILDHOOD

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