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Yemen live in Catalonia: children at risk from an upsurge of violence

The violence following the demonstrations in Yemen seriously threatens the safety of children. Many participate in demonstrations and are exposed to danger. Since the unrest began in early February, has reported the deaths of 19 children in the cities of Sana'a, Ibb, Aden and Mukalla.

"Children are the first víctimasy the most vulnerable in any emergency or unrest," said Geert Cappelaere, UNICEF Representative in Yemen. "We must ensure that the clashes between adults do not reach the children."

"The situation is especialmentealarmante," said George Abu-Zulof, Child Protection Specialist UNICEF. And with the recent escalation of violence, is expected to increase tension across the country.

"Many parents in Yemen continue taking their children to demonstrations, they are exposed to risks and increase their vulnerability to deadly dangers," explains Ahmed Al-Gorashi, President of SEYAJ, an organization dedicated to the protection of children. Al-Gorashi warns all parties to the conflict about the risks of taking children to demonstrations.

Children are afraid to go to school

Moath At school

Ibn Jabal in Sana, capital of Yemen, Yusub explains how the crisis is affecting your life. "My brother, my sisters and I went to school for a week. We were all scared."

On the other hand, Bushra Al-Manar Bukari and his sister, 11 and 10 years respectively, explain how they heard the shooting last week when security forces tried to end the protest. "We were terrified. We can not go to school or playing outside."

Jamila Al-Mujahid, the director of the school, has noticed the growing tension and violence have affected not only attendance but also the behavior and school performance.

"Children become more aggressive and have a more pronounced tendency to fight," he says. "I saw some children had political slogans painted on their arms. Children are accustomed to seeing and experiencing such violence," complains the director.

Schools in other parts of the country also have been affected. Aden (south of the country) and Taiz have been reported assaults and threats to students and teachers.