FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2023
Florida Chapter of AAP Calls for Protection of Children from Armed Conflict
Armed conflict has harmful consequences to children’s health.
Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FCAAP) is saddened by the immense suffering throughout the world, especially the suffering of children affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. Armed conflict has direct and indirect harmful consequences to children’s physical, mental, and behavioral health, that can persist throughout one’s life.
We support the recent statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) about the Israel-Hamas war, and we anticipate the revision of the AAP policy on “The Effects of Armed Conflict on Children” that will emphasize the following:
- Children should never be harmed because of their or their family’s religion, culture, or other beliefs and values.
- Harm to children should never be used as a tool or tactic of war or conflict.
- Children should be protected from the direct effects of armed conflicts and their food, housing, health, and other basic needs should be safeguarded.
FCAAP agrees with this policy and calls for the immediate and permanent:
- Cessation of the killing and maiming of children,
- Cessation of the denial of humanitarian aid to children,
- Release of all abducted children,
- Protection of children from the direct effects of armed conflicts, and
- Safeguarding of children’s food, clean water, housing, health, and other basic needs.
All children deserve to live in a world where they are loved and supported and do not have to fear death and loss. FCAAP will continue to advocate for the health, safety, and happiness of all children, and will continue to support the professionals who care for them.
About the Florida Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics
Through its more than 2,500 members, the Florida Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics promotes the health and welfare of Florida’s children and supports pediatricians and pediatric specialists as the best qualified providers of their health care.
MEDIA CONTACT
Alicia E. Adams, Esq., Executive Director, aadams@fcaap.org
Download a PDF of the statement here.
