Response to media reports that more British children may be repatriated from North East Syria

London | 31 July 2020 | Save the Children

"Every child saved is a triumph of compassion in the face of cruelty"

• Save the Children has spokespeople available for interview. Please contact media@savethechildren.org.uk / 0207 012 6841 / (24 hrs) 07831 650409

Following media reports that the UK government may repatriate some British children from Syria, Save the Children's Conflict and Humanitarian Adviser Orlaith Minogue, said:

“We aren’t in a position to comment on individual cases or the accuracy of these reports, but every child saved is a triumph of compassion in the face of cruelty. 

“Children in Syria who have fled ISIS-held areas are innocent, including those with their mothers. They are swept up in horrific events far beyond their control and their short lives have been full of violence and fear. Now they are stranded in desolate camps in dire conditions. Many have injuries or disabilities from the fighting, and we’re seriously concerned by increasing malnutrition in the camps, which could have lifelong, irreversible consequences to children’s minds and bodies.

“But we know that with the right care children bounce back, recover and amaze us. They want to play and learn, and just be children again. They want to grow up to be doctors, teachers and football players. Our government can and must give the remaining British children that chance by bringing them home. We know it is possible – they have done it before.”