January 6 marks the World Day of War Orphans, dedicated to recognising the challenges faced by children orphaned due to the impacts of war, invasions, or military conflicts.

Founded by the humanitarian organisation SOS – Enfants en Detresse (SOSEED) in France, the day serves as a poignant reminder of the global plight of war orphans.

• SOSEED operates internationally, striving to safeguard orphans and children from mistreatment and abuse.
• This year, heightened conflicts, such as those in Gaza and Israel, Russia and Ukraine, Armenia and Azerbaijan, or the factions in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, have unfortunately resulted in an increased number of war orphans.
• The World Day of War Orphans stands as a call to action for collective efforts to address the needs and hardships of these vulnerable children. 
• This year’s theme is “Standing Up for War-Affected Children” and is meant to focus global attention on the challenges these children face and how to best meet their needs.