In situations of armed conflict it is vulnerable members of society, such as children, who fare the worst. In recent conflicts more than 70% of casualties have been civilians, mostly women and children. Existing discrimination on the basis of gender is exacerbated during wartime. This can be seen in the specific effects of armed conflict on women.
Causes and costs of war
Women and children
Civilians
The Impact of War on Civilians Civilians bear the brunt of wars today, with the majority of casualties in present day conflicts being non-combatants. The lives of civilians are also affected by a number of other factors, with the damage often persisting long after war has ended.
Small arms
Small arms are internationally one of the greatest killers of civilians and combatants alike. Over 600 million small arms circulate in global markets and demand is increasing. Their wide availability and rampant use exacerbate conflict and violence that shatter years of hard-earned progress in development, health, and humanitarian services.
Causes and costs of war
War costs the earth. Literally. Wars and armed conflicts around the world kill hundreds to thousands of people each year. Wars turn families into refugees, forcing people to leave their homes, countries and regions. To leave cultures, traditional medicines and foods. Wars turn adults and children into soldiers and/or victims, creating an intergenerational spiral […]