Protecting the Present and Future of Children Affected by Conflict
The ongoing civil war in Yemen has been a protracted conflict since 2015, involving Ansar Allah (the Houthis), which controls the northwestern region inhabited by 70% of the population, and the interim government that governs the southern region. This war has become a “proxy conflict involving major powers” with Iran supporting the Houthis, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates back the interim government, often collaborating with various domestic factions. In 2022, a ceasefire agreement was achieved, and by 2023, there were indications of progress towards resolving the conflict, including the normalization of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia. However, the situation remains volatile. The Houthis, citing support for Palestine, have begun targeting vessels associated with Israel in response to Israel’s invasion of Gaza. This has led to retaliatory airstrikes by the US and UK, making a ceasefire appear increasingly distant. As a result, over half of the Yemeni population continues to require humanitarian aid.
Activities in 2023
Assistance in obtaining identification/birth registration cards for internally displaced persons
Many internally displaced persons have either lost their identification documents during evacuation or lack birth certificates for children born after their displacement. As a result, they encounter substantial difficulties in accessing essential services, including aid, education, medical care, and mobility across checkpoints and regional boundaries. Their ability to exercise the fundamental rights necessary for daily living is severely compromised. In response, a series of awareness-raising workshops on the rights of displaced persons and children, and the critical importance of identification and education, were conducted, engaging 425 participants. Furthermore, 400 children received birth registration certificates, and 150 individuals aged 16 and older were issued identification cards.
Man receiving an identification card
Establishment of “Child Friendly Spaces” for child protection
Life under conflict severely impacts children’s physical and emotional well-being, depriving many displaced children of the crucial “childhood time” needed to foster creativity, social skills, and emotional growth. In response, we established Child Friendly Spaces (CFSs) at two displaced persons sites (Al Hageb and Al Hasbary), creating nurturing environments where children can engage in activities like storytelling, drawing, and playing games. To support this initiative, 12 facilitators and community members received training in child protection and psychosocial support. The CFSs were equipped with play facilities such as trampolines, swings, and slides, along with indoor play materials. Over the span of three months, 210 children actively and continuously participated in these supportive activities.
Crafts being made with colored paper at the CFS
Results and Challenges
Observed changes in children and their caregivers
The importance of birth registration certificates and identification documents has been increasingly recognized among internally displaced persons, resulting in a surge of requests for these essential documents. Many individuals have expressed relief and a newfound sense of belonging to society upon receiving them. In addition, the CFSs have brought significant joy to the children involved. Caregivers have reported a heightened sense of security knowing their children are engaging in safe and supportive environments. Observations indicate positive developments, such as formerly reserved children becoming more expressive and confident. The CFSs have also facilitated valuable interactions between displaced individuals and host communities. However, it has become clear that the displaced community alone cannot sustain the ongoing operations of the CFSs. Consequently, other organizations have assumed responsibility for managing the CFSs previously supported by JVC.
Tug of war at the CFS
Activity Plan for 2024
Support for CFSs for internally displaced persons
In the Jabal Habashi District of Taiz Governorate, close to the conflict zone, we plan to establish two CFSs for internally displaced children, like in the previous year, providing four months of further operational support. Specifically, we will provide facilitator training, daily allowances, CFS tents, play equipment, and stationery. At the same time, we will also conduct training on child protection and rights in the target communities. As in the previous year 2023, we will work to establish support for CFSs and consider delegating their operation to other organizations working in this field. Additionally, we will work with local NGOs to share information about Yemen within Japan and make policy recommendations.
Children enthralled by the puppet show
With the staff of our partner organization NMO
Our staff member Kobayashi handing over an identification card
Voices and Messages
I would like to devote myself to children
Asia, a resident of Maqbanah District
We had to flee to avoid Saudi airstrikes in 2015, and we were forced to evacuate again due to the Houthi aggression in 2021. Then we arrived at this refugee camp. My daughter participates in activities at the CFS. Before, I used to worry about not knowing where she was, but now I feel reassured because I know where she is. Even after coming back home, my daughter continues to draw. With the support I received for my daughter’s birth registration, she can continue her studies no matter wherever we go. Having obtained my own identification means that even when my husband is away on temporary jobs, I am able to receive the support we need. Although I’m unsure when we might need to travel far, I am confident that I will be able to pass through checkpoints and hopefully stay in hotels without problems.
From displaced person to future leader
Abdullah, Field Officer of Nahda Makers Organization (NMO)
The CFSs are run by local people, which was surprisingly impressive even to us. It’s so important for kids to have fun and be themselves. Who knows? Some of these children might grow up to become leaders of Yemen; I really believe that’s possible. Caregivers have been sharing some wonderful feedback. They’ve seen shy kids make new friends and express themselves more openly. They’ve also noticed how much the puppet shows have helped their kids learn to behave better, which makes them feel much more comfortable about sending their children to participate in these activities. Since we started our work here, we’ve also received other forms of support coming in. Even though our interventions may be small, they’re making a big difference.
The author : Right
[Source: JVC Annual Report 2023]
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