New Zealand
Liberia
Children affected by civil conflict
Liberia has known conflict for the better part of a generation. Thousands of children have been involved in acts of violence as active participants in what adults call ‘military campaigns’. Few have managed to enjoy the healthy, balanced life that is every child’s right.
While UN peacekeeping efforts over the past year have helped to stabilise the country and many families who fled the conflict are now returning home, Liberia's economy is still devastated. Children are vulnerable to hunger, disease and exploitative work.
Since July 2003, Save the Children New Zealand has helped to protect between 50,000 to 75,000 children from the impact of conflict in Liberia's north and east by creating protective community structures to minimise:
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family separation
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sexual violence
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exploitation.
We have also supported local organisations to provide primary health care to refugee children, and increased children's capacity to help themselves with life skills training (including sexual health and HIV/AIDS education).