Libraries For Resilience: Supporting Trauma Recovery and Education for Gaza's Children
Introduction
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached unprecedented levels, with its impact on the education system revealing the depths of the inhumanity experienced by its children.
The ongoing conflict has not only devastated lives and infrastructure, but has severely compromised the future of all the children of Gaza. The international community has a moral obligation to act, and libraries can play a pivotal role in supporting these efforts.
At Lilipad, we call for a concerted global response to ensure that the children in Gaza, those displaced or those who remain, receive the quality education and dignity they are due, both now and in the future.
1. The State of Education in Gaza
The education system in Gaza is in a state of severe crisis. Recent reports highlight the staggering extent of the destruction: more than 70% of Gaza’s schools have been damaged or destroyed (The National News).
This widespread damage has left many children without access to safe and stable learning environments, directly impacting their educational progress and overall well-being.
The Guardian underscores the long-term effects of this crisis on Gaza's children. The destruction of schools has not only interrupted their education but has also left a psychological scar on many students, who are now coping with heightened stress and trauma. The VOA News reports that the ongoing conflict exacerbates this trauma, making it increasingly difficult for children to focus on learning and development.
Despite these overwhelming challenges, there are efforts to maintain some level of education through makeshift arrangements. However, the lack of resources, unstable conditions, and psychological trauma make these efforts extremely challenging.
According to Reuters, educators and students in Gaza are showing remarkable resilience, but the long-term implications for their educational and emotional health remain deeply concerning.
Photos by: mohammed al bardawil on Unsplash
2. The Role of Libraries in Supporting Trauma Recovery
Libraries have a unique and crucial role to play in supporting the recovery and education of children affected by trauma. Here’s how libraries can make a significant impact:
Safe and Supportive Learning Spaces: Libraries can establish informal learning environments for both displaced and remaining children. These spaces can offer a sense of stability and continuity in education, providing a safe haven for children to engage in learning activities despite the ongoing conflict.
Emotional and Psychological Support: Libraries can develop and implement programs that address the emotional and psychological needs of children. Initiatives such as storytelling sessions, art therapy, and creative workshops can help children express their emotions and cope with trauma. These activities are essential for fostering resilience and supporting emotional recovery.
Community Building and Connection: Libraries can act as community hubs, organizing events and support groups that connect displaced families with local communities. This helps to build a sense of belonging and solidarity, which is vital for the emotional well-being of both displaced and remaining children.
Photo by Emad El Byed on Unsplash
3. A Moral Imperative for Global and Local Action
The crisis in Gaza presents a profound moral imperative for action. The international community, host countries, and local organisations must unite to support the educational and emotional needs of Gaza’s children. Libraries, as part of this broader response, can contribute significantly to the recovery process.
It is essential to plan for the future reconstruction of educational infrastructure and to provide immediate support for maintaining educational and emotional continuity. We must ensure that every child in Gaza—whether displaced or remaining—receives the quality education and dignity they deserve. This collective effort is crucial for upholding their rights and contributing to their resilience and future well-being.
4. About Lilipad
Lilipad is committed to advancing education by creating library spaces and providing reading opportunities to children affected by social exclusion, with a particular focus on children affected by conflict and displacement and residing in Berlin, Germany. We strive to promote literacy, learning, and resilience.
Your support can make a difference. Help us provide crucial resources to over 2,300 children in Germany, Morocco, Uganda and France.
Visit our donation page to contribute and be part of the solution.
Blog post written by Sara Arsalane, Founder & Managing Director at Lilipad.
