The use of children as warriors is an age-old practice. But children who are the victims of trauma, violence, and involuntary participation in war are not the only ones who are affected. Essentially, all children living in conflict areas suffer from varying degrees of anxiety and emotional distress that, if not effectively addressed, can adversely affect them for the remainder of their lives.

	Source: Martin Lueders

For each child who is killed or injured by physical violence, gunfire, or landmines, many more are deprived of basic physical, emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs. Millions of children have lost their parents, siblings, homes, education…their childhood. Girls especially are victimized in ways that can have life-long after-effects if timely, proper care and counseling are not provided.

Since 1989, USAID has given assistance to these children through the Displaced Children and Orphans Fund. With significant programs for children affected by war in eight countries, USAID has established a strong record of accomplishment. These children-based interventions have often been the first development activities to take place in a country that is or has recently been affected by war. One important lesson that has been learned is that when appropriate steps are taken, most parties can reconcile their differences when the well-being of their children is at stake.

Learn more about USAID's current Displaced Children & Orphans Fund programs.