UNICEF reaffirms need to end hostilities for the benefit of every child

"UNICEF joined the UN Resident Coordinator and Ministry of Health colleagues to visit children injured in Armenia and the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone. During our visit, we had the opportunity to meet and engage with Narek, Ruben and Artsvik. Narek told us about the circumstances in which he was injured. He also shared stories about his hobbies, including chess and mathematics, and agreed to a chess match when he recovers. Since Ruben is only beginning to be able to talk again as a result of his injuries, we spoke at length with his mother, who was also injured. 

She talked about the tragedy and shared insights into her son’s passions, including football, which he hopes to return to when fully recovered. We played with little Artsvik and talked with his mother and healthcare workers about his recovery process. Our hearts go out to all children affected by the ongoing conflict. UNICEF repeats its urgent call for the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure, and reiterates that a cessation of hostilities is in the best interest of every child. UNICEF is working with partners to provide psychosocial support to those children who have had to leave their homes or are otherwise affected".