The NASUWT, the largest teachers’ union in the UK, has highlighted the appalling impact of the global refugee crisis on the world’s children and young people.
 
Moving a motion on the impact of the refugee crisis on children at TUC Congress in Brighton, NASUWT President Kathy Wallis called on the UK Government to play its full part in ensuring all refugee and displaced children are able to access education and are protected from abuse and violence.
 
She highlighted the fact that over half of the 21 million refugees registered with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees are under 18, many travelling unaccompanied. Of these, 3.6 million are school-aged children with no access to education.
 
She told Congress:
 
“In the midst of destruction, violence, and instability, schools are a sanctuary; a haven of normality and hope; a place of learning and opportunity.
 
“Neglecting a child’s right to education undermines not only their future, but also the future of their societies. 
 
“Lack of education leaves children more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse, including recruitment into armed groups, child labour and early marriage.
 
“Despite this desperate situation, just one per cent of the global humanitarian aid budget is spent on education.”
 
She added:
 
“The NASUWT has a proud history of working with our teacher trade union colleagues in areas such as these, providing practical assistance including financial support and training. 
 
“As well as our work in Turkey and across the Middle East and North Africa, our Union has maintained a long-standing relationship with teacher trade union colleagues supporting the Burmese Karin refugee community in Thailand.
 
“However, much more must be done to support refugee and displaced children within their native countries, in neighbouring states and here in the UK.”