Displacement is a terrible experience

By Meron, aged 16, young leader, Ethiopia.

My name is Meron, and I am 16 years old. Initially, I used to live in a small town in northern Ethiopia. Like many people, my family and I were affected by the armed conflict that began in 2020. I was 13 years old by then, and we were displaced by leaving all family assets behind, and my dad was arrested. We did not know whether he was alive or not, which was so distressing for me. Then, my mom and three of my siblings moved to other parts of the country and started living in a temporary shelter for displaced people. I interrupted my education, like many millions of children, for three years due to the conflict. I was just recently able to return to school and start ninth grade. I will never forget the joy and happiness I had the first day I resumed my education. However, life in the displaced camp is so bitter, and I always dream of going back to my hometown.

Displacement is a terrible experience that profoundly affects people, especially children. It hurts us physically, emotionally, and psychologically. It often leads to dropping out of school, being separated from family, and lacking access to basic needs like food, healthcare, and shelter. These hardships can have a lasting impact on our development and future opportunities.

I have personally experienced these struggles and see them daily in my community. Many displaced children don't get to enjoy everyday life. They drop out of school, beg on the streets for food, and some are even alone, separated from their families or orphaned. Children are innocent. They have no say in the conflicts that force them from their homes, yet they suffer the most. This is why I urge everyone to take action and create a better, more peaceful world.

Today, while we celebrate World Social Justice Day, I call on everyone to help children stay with their families in the places they choose. Let's bring back their happiness and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Together, we can build a better world and a brighter future for the next generation.