Impacts of Armed Conflicts on Education: Challenges and Pathways to Recovery
Authors: Salih AlMutairi Furat Zaki 
Published: August 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the impacts of armed conflicts on education, with the aim of understanding both direct and indirect effects, evaluating the role of international organizations, and assessing the effectiveness of legal protections. The research aims to provide recommendations for safeguarding and rebuilding education systems in conflict-affected regions, emphasizing education's role in peacebuilding.

Theoretical Framework: In this topic, the main concepts and theories that underpin the research are presented. The theory of conflict and peace education, the human capital theory, and the resilience theory stand out, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. These frameworks help to analyze the impacts of armed conflicts on educational systems, the role of education in economic and social recovery, and the strategies for building resilient education systems in conflict-affected regions.

Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a qualitative study design, including case studies from Syria, Afghanistan, and Sub-Saharan Africa. The approach involved analyzing the direct and indirect impacts of armed conflicts on education systems in these regions. Participants included educators, students, and representatives from international organizations such as UNESCO and UNICEF. Data collection was carried out through a combination of interviews with key stakeholders, questionnaires distributed to affected communities, and observations of educational environments in conflict zones. This comprehensive approach allowed for a detailed examination of the challenges and recovery pathways for education in areas affected by armed conflicts.

Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed significant disruptions in educational systems due to armed conflicts, including the destruction of schools, loss of educators, economic hardship, and displacement. The study found that international organizations like UNESCO and UNICEF play a crucial role in addressing these challenges through various initiatives such as intercultural dialogue, curriculum development, teacher preparation, and textbook reform. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in light of the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications and relationships identified. For instance, the theory of conflict and peace education underscores the transformative power of education in promoting peace and stability. The human capital theory emphasizes the economic impact of disrupted education on affected communities, while the resilience theory illustrates the importance of building robust educational systems that can withstand and recover from conflict-related challenges. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. These include the potential biases in data collection methods, the limited scope of case studies, and the challenges in generalizing findings across different conflict-affected regions. Despite these limitations, the study provides valuable insights and practical recommendations for safeguarding and rebuilding education systems in conflict zones.

Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of the impacts of armed conflicts on education through detailed case studies, and by evaluating the role of international organizations and legal protections. The originality of the research is highlighted through its innovative approach of combining qualitative case study analysis with practical recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.
The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by its potential to influence educational policy, international aid strategies, and legal frameworks in conflict-affected regions. The findings may impact the area of study by providing a deeper understanding of how education systems can be protected and rebuilt during and after conflicts, thereby contributing to peacebuilding and stability. This research offers practical contributions that can guide the development of more resilient educational infrastructures and effective interventions by international organizations.