Ten-year-old Hassan Saad faces daily life challenges as the head of his family, working to clean and transport bricks and stones for reuse in Gaza. Amid deteriorating economic conditions, Hassan has become a source of income for his family of nine, taking on responsibilities that exceed his age.
Hassan starts his day early, leaving his tattered tent in search of stones and bricks among the rubble left by war. He earns 20 shekels a day, an amount insufficient to meet his family's needs, yet he has no other option due to the lack of alternative job opportunities.
Details of the Situation
As Hassan moves between work sites in Shuja'iyya and the Zaytoun neighborhood, he faces numerous dangers. Hassan states, "This work is not for children, but for adults. I suffer from pain in my body due to the heavy loads I carry daily." Despite the exhaustion, he continues to work to meet his family's needs, while his mother worries about his safety.
His mother, Yusra Saad, describes her constant anxiety, as Hassan's income is their only source of support. She adds, "I worry about him; he has suffered several injuries while working, but we have no choice given the difficult circumstances we live in."
Background & Context
Gaza lives under the weight of siege and repeated wars, leading to the destruction of many homes and infrastructure. According to statistics, more than 18,000 children have been killed in the region since the conflict began, reflecting the extent of suffering experienced by children in this area.
The number of working children in Gaza is increasing, as many are forced to work under harsh conditions to secure a living for their families. This phenomenon is not new, but it is exacerbating amid the ongoing crises plaguing the region.
Impact & Consequences
These conditions affect children's physical and mental health, with many suffering from health problems due to hard labor. Education is also significantly impacted, as children are forced to leave school to seek work.
These situations require urgent intervention from the international community to provide necessary support for children and their families, ensuring their rights to education and protection from exploitation.
Regional Significance
Hassan's case exemplifies the tragedy faced by many children in the Arab world, where the number of working children in conflict areas is rising. This phenomenon calls for collective efforts from Arab countries and the international community to protect children's rights and provide a safe environment for them.
In conclusion, Hassan's dream of returning to school and living with dignity, free from the heavy burdens he bears, is a dream shared by many children in Gaza.