Unicef said it is worried about children who have been caught up in recent violent protests, and the continued use of children in demonstrations held by political parties, in Bangladesh.
It urgently called upon all parties to keep children safe from any kind of violence and to solve their political differences through peaceful dialogue.
“Unicef voiced its concern earlier this year about the use of children for political gain. Worryingly children have increasingly become the victims of violent protests,” Unicef Representative Pascal Villeneuve said in a statement Tuesday.
Children should be kept out of harm’s way and we reiterate that the use of children for political gain must stop, it reads.
Alarmingly the UN body has observed that a number of children have died or have been seriously injured during violent political demonstrations across the country in the last few weeks.
“At times of great uncertainty, such as before and during an election, it is important that homes, communities and schools continue to be havens of safety for children. Children should be sheltered, in all countries, from political turbulence.”
Unicef also called on all political parties to shield children from these demonstrations, so that they and their caregivers can continue with their lives in an atmosphere free of violence and interference.
It said: children should be able to continue with their lives and enjoy their rights. Children should have uninterrupted access to basic social services. Those responsible for providing these services, such as teachers and health workers, are accomplishing a noble duty and should themselves be protected from violence, so that they can meet their responsibilities to children without fear and interruption.
Children account for 40% of the population of Bangladesh.