The de facto closure of access to Mountainous Karabakh through the Lachin Corridor will negatively affect the situation of children. The UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, issued a statement to this effect:
“The longer this situation lasts, the more children will suffer from shortages of basic foodstuffs and essential services needed for their survival, healthy growth and well-being. Many children are also deprived of parental care, as they are separated from their parents or legal guardians.
UNICEF reiterates the UN Secretary-General’s call to ensure freedom and security of movement through the Lachin Corridor in accordance with previous agreements. This is extremely important to ensure that children in Mountainous Karabakh are protected, and that humanitarian organizations can reach those in need safely and quickly. UNICEF continues to seek avenues of dialogue and to cooperate with all stakeholders in order to gain access to support children living in that area,” the statement said.
Azerbaijan has continued to keep the Lachin Corridor, the only road connecting Artsakh to the world, closed since 12 December, citing false environmental pretexts.
