Children, trauma and modern conflictCEFR B2
6 Apr 2026
Adapted from Guest Contributor, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Teah Rushing, Unsplash
Conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, West Asia and Sudan show that modern warfare reaches well beyond battlefields and into civilian life. Children are among the worst affected: they suffer immediate injuries, lose homes and schools, and face long-term psychological damage. A recent case in Gaza involved a 21-month-old child returned to family with injuries doctors said were consistent with torture. UNICEF described Gaza as “the most dangerous place in the world to be a child.” Regional figures name thousands of children killed or injured in Ukraine, hundreds in parts of West Asia, tens of thousands in Gaza, and millions displaced in Sudan and Ukraine.
Professionals use Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) screenings — ten questions that cover events like lack of food, water or shelter; losing one or more caregivers; family violence; and unwanted sexual contact with an adult. If someone has three or more ACEs their risk of PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicide attempts and drug use increases. They also face higher risk of physical illnesses such as cancer, high blood pressure and heart failure. In the U.S., about one in ten people will have three or more ACEs, while globally one in six children are estimated to live in active conflict zones and may face multiple ACEs at once.
To reduce harm, a reliable and supportive caregiver is the strongest buffer against trauma. Many children need psychological care, stable housing and community support to rebuild safety. Protecting childhoods requires coordinated action by governments, international institutions, educators, humanitarian workers and citizens to provide education, mental health services and stable living conditions.
Difficult words
- adverse childhood experiences — ten harmful events experienced in early life
- screening — method to check people for possible problemsscreenings
- caregiver — person who gives daily care and protectioncaregivers
- buffer — thing or person that reduces negative effects
- psychological — related to the mind and emotional health
- torture — severe physical or mental cruelty to someone
- displace — force people to leave their homes or areadisplaced
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What practical steps could governments and communities take to protect children in conflict zones, based on the article?
- How can a reliable caregiver help reduce long-term harm after a child experiences multiple ACEs? Give examples from the article or real life.
- Which services (education, mental health, housing) should be prioritised first for displaced children, and why?
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