Children Living in Conflict-Affected Areas Speak Out

"Life is good because my sisters, brothers and I have the possibility to go to school and learn. But I also dream of a country that's not at war. I want the entire Afghan people to stand together."
 - Mirwais, 14 Afghanistan

"During the war we didn't have the chance to play or go to school because we had to hide in the bush. When we had to flee, my brother didn't make it. He was surrounded by soldiers and they shot him. I cried a lot and I was afraid the same would happen to me. Now the war is over and we're getting a new school. I want to work hard and be good in school so that someday I can become a teacher. I miss my brother and have promised myself to work hard for his sake."
 - Jaime, 13, Angola

"Please open the school again. The war is between adults, but it affects us children."
 - Gamesh, 16, Nepal

"It's far better to learn life skills and lessons than the education of war. If we all go to school maybe there will be no more war."
 - Sarah, 15, Southern Sudan

"I am very proud to know how to count and read. I now say to all young brothers not to get involved with the military. It's not good for children."
 - Felix, 16, Cote d'Ivoire

"When I was younger there was lots of fighting. I used to be very frightened and wasn't allowed to go to school because I could be attacked. Since I have gone to school my life has changed. I know how to keep clean and have learned about children's rights. Children who are educated will help by being doctors or teachers."
 - Mary, 12, Southern Sudan.