Imagine leaving everything you know and love behind.
This is the reality for an estimated 30,000 children who, alongside their families, have been displaced into Armenia following the escalation of hostilities. In the face of this crisis, UNICEF is on the ground, working with the Armenian government to provide immediate support to every child, no matter what.
What's happening in Armenia?
Children and families in the region have been living through many months of an increasingly difficult humanitarian situation and they now need to deal with the challenges of the sudden displacement into Armenia.
They are in urgent need of immediate, as well as long-term, mental health and psychosocial support given the many struggles they’ve had to face recently. We believe a child is a child, no matter where they are and why they are forced to leave their homes. Every child has the right to protection, care and all the support and services they need to thrive.
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UNICEF is providing urgent assistance to children. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help today.
UNICEF is deeply concerned about the impacts on children
In an emergency, our first priority is always the safety and wellbeing of children and families. As uncertainty continues, children and families face long-term displacement across Armenia. UNICEF is supporting the local government to ensure that displaced children are enrolled into national education system, have access to child protection services and primary healthcare.
"It is heartbreaking to see so many children and families having to flee their homes. More than anything, these children need peace and stability."
UNICEF stands with children in Armenia
Delivery of medical supplies and medicine
On 29 September 2023, UNICEF delivered the first batch of life-saving medical supplies to health authorities in Armenia, to ensure they reach healthcare facilities in areas with high numbers of displaced populations. The batch includes bandages, syringes, and a range of essential medications, including anti-allergic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic drugs.
We've also delivered family hygiene kits to hundreds of registered families at the newly established coordination centre in Yerevan, with more supplies on the way to assist displaced children and families.
Setting up children's corner
UNICEF has set up a safe space in Goris, where nearly 300 children come every day along with their parents, following the challenging journey through the Lachin corridor to reach Syunik. It’s a place where they can feel safe and be children again.
"The children are still grappling with the shock of their experiences, trying to make sense of it all."
This space offers a comprehensive array of essential services, encompassing recreation, paediatrics, psychosocial support, and more—all under one roof. The centre also serves as a safe and nurturing space where mothers can comfortably breastfeed their little bubs.
For every child, no matter what
UNICEF has been in Armenia since 1994. We support the government in the design and implementation of reforms to address gaps in the fulfilment of the rights of all children in Armenia, with a focus on those who need it most.
UNICEF is on the ground delivering life-saving help and hope to children and families impacted by the recent hostilities and displacement. We urge all parties involved and those who have influence over them to place children’s safety and survival above all.
Before, during and after an emergency, we will continue working tirelessly to provide life-saving support to those who need it most.
But we can't do it alone. Help us make a difference in the lives of children impacted by conflict and crisis, no matter where they are.
Donate to Children in Emergencies
UNICEF is providing urgent assistance to children. But we can’t do it alone. We need your help today.
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