UNICEF: Palestinian children bear brunt of conflict.

GAZA, Occupied Palestinian Territory, 9 June 2008 -- UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Sigrid Kaag visited the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel recently to see firsthand the enduring impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict on children.

"Under current conditions, the key challenges remain access to quality services and care, especially in education and health, and stronger protection systems at the household, community and government levels," said Ms. Kaag. "Children make up more than half the population in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, and they bear the brunt of conflict, closure and increase in poverty levels."

Ms. Kaag visited UNICEF-supported programmes in Gaza City as well as Gaza's Jabaliya camp, Bethlehem, Ramallah and Beit Lahiya. She also met the President of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas, in the West Bank city of Bethlehem.

"We are very hopeful because of the commitment we see in parents, the community and the leadership to build on progress in the systems and institutions that protect and nurture children's well-being," Ms. Kaag said during a visit to an adolescent-friendly learning centre near Bethlehem.

To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/oPt_44407.html

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