Protesters call for the release of pupils and teachers kidnapped in May from three schools in Oyo state, Nigeria, where girls are often the target of attacks.

Violent attacks on schools, pupils and staff around the world up by 40%, says study.

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Attacks on education reached alarming levels in 2024 and 2025.

A new report from the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA) reveals that attacks on education increased by more than 40% worldwide during 2024 and 2025 compared with the previous two-year period. Researchers documented at least 8,556 attacks affecting schools, universities, students, and education personnel across 83 countries. More than 10,600 students and staff were killed, injured, abducted, arrested, or otherwise harmed. The report warns that the real number may be even higher due to underreporting in conflict-affected regions.

Palestine, Ukraine, Haiti, and other countries faced the highest levels of violence.

The study identifies Palestine, Ukraine, Haiti, Colombia, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo among the countries most affected by attacks on education. More than 2,000 attacks were recorded in Palestine, while Ukraine experienced over 900 attacks on schools. Haiti reported more than 400 incidents. The report also notes that military occupation of schools and universities nearly doubled, reaching 1,912 documented cases. Such practices disrupt learning, damage infrastructure, and expose students to additional risks including recruitment, displacement, and violence.

Girls, students with disabilities, and vulnerable groups face growing threats.

Beyond physical attacks, the report highlights increasing violence targeting girls and women because of their gender. Cases were documented in at least 11 countries, including Afghanistan, Nigeria, Haiti, Cameroon, and Colombia. Researchers also reported attacks affecting students with disabilities and a growing use of explosive weapons, including drone-delivered explosives, in approximately 300 incidents involving educational institutions. GCPEA warns that these trends reflect a broader erosion of international norms designed to protect children and schools during times of conflict.

Reference

Johnson, S. (2026, June 15). Violent attacks on schools, pupils and staff around the world up by 40%, says study. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/jun/15/global-attacks-killing-abductions-education-pupils-staff-up-40pc-gcpea-study