UN condemns airstrikes on Karenni primary schools
The U.N. International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) released a statement condemning airstrikes on two primary schools in Demoso Township of Karenni State that killed four children, ages 12-14, and three adults on Monday, Feb. 5.
“UNICEF strongly condemns any strikes against schools and places of learning, which must always be safe spaces for children,” the statement said.
It added that attacks on schools are a “grave” violation of children’s rights and may be a violation of international law. Schools, and other places of learning, should always remain a safe place for children, according to UNICEF.
“We join their strong condemnation of any strikes against schools and places of learning,” said Stéphane Dujarric, the spokesperson for the U.N. Secretary General.
The Karenni Interim Executive Council (IEC) and National Unity Government (NUG) accused the military of deliberately targeting children. Both groups have called for international justice and accountability.
Regime media denied the military carried out airstrikes on Feb. 5 and accused DVB of spreading false information. Pro-military channels on the social media platform Telegram confirmed that airstrikes took place, but claimed that the military was targeting the People’s Defense Force (PDF) and Civil Disobedience Movement (CDM) members working at the schools.
