Over 1,000 children killed by Myanmar junta since 2021 coup, AAPP reports

The Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP) reports that more than 1,000 innocent children have been killed as a result of the Myanmar military junta’s violence since the 2021 military coup. In a report released on 1 July, AAPP stated that from the time of the 2021 coup through the end of June 2026, 1,083 children have lost their lives due to the junta’s violence. Of those killed, 632 were children between newborn and 13 years of age, and 451 were children above 13 years old. The youngest victim was just two months old. AAPP noted that this figure represents only confirmed cases, and that the deaths of an additional 400 children are still being investigated and await verification. In addition, Myanmar military junta airstrikes have damaged or destroyed at least 470 schools, preschools, and educational institutions across the country – with Sagaing Region recording the highest number at more than 134 schools. Significant destruction has also been reported in Magway Region, Mandalay Region and Chinland. Although basic education schools across the country reopened last month, children in most conflict-affected areas still lack a safe learning environment. Those attending school continue to face daily threats from airstrikes, drones, artillery fire and other dangers of war, AAPP stated. Furthermore, AAPP reported that 639 children have been unlawfully arrested and detained from the time of the 2021 coup through the end of June this year. Due to the ongoing conflict and instability caused by the coup, healthcare access has deteriorated severely across the country, leaving 1.2 million children nationwide without access to basic vaccinations, AAPP reported.