[child-rights] UNICEF assists schools affected by recent violence in Thailand

BANGKOK, May 3 – UNICEF is sending school supplies to the three southern
provinces in Thailand affected by the recent violence.

Since January 2004, an estimated 30 schools have been destroyed in southern
Thailand, affecting some 5,000 students. Teachers have been intimidated and
there is a fear that some schools may not reopen after the current holiday
due to security considerations, according to UNICEF.

"We are dismayed by the number of young people who have been caught up in
the violence and tragically lost their lives, and also the damage done to
schools," said Carol Bellamy, UNICEF's Executive Director. "We urge
everyone to respect children's rights to safe and healthy lives, including
the right to go to school," she added.

The school supplies, including sports equipment, have been purchased by
UNICEF with funds donated by the people of Thailand.

***

For more information and interviews, please contact

Patrick McCormick, UNICEF East Asia and Pacific
Tel: 662 356 9407, Mobile:  661 906 0813



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