Attacks on Education Worldwide Jump More Than 40 Percent, New Report Finds

June 15, 2026 - 11:23

A new report released today documents at least 8,500 attacks on education across the globe during 2024 and 2025. That marks a more than 40 percent increase compared to the previous two-year period, according to the Education Under Attack 2026 report from the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack.

The violence harmed more than 10,600 students, teachers, and education personnel in 83 countries. Notably, 55 of those countries were not in active armed conflict. The findings suggest that schools and universities have become increasingly targeted even in places not officially at war.

Attacks took many forms, including bombings, arson, military use of school buildings, and direct threats against educators and students. In some regions, armed groups deliberately targeted girls' schools or teachers to disrupt access to education. In other areas, schools were caught in the crossfire of ongoing violence.

The report highlights that attacks on education are not limited to war zones. Political instability, organized crime, and community-level conflicts also put students and staff at risk. The authors warn that the rising numbers reflect a broader breakdown in the protection of schools as safe spaces.

The data covers a wide range of incidents, from individual threats to large-scale assaults. The coalition called for stronger international action to hold perpetrators accountable and to ensure that education remains protected under international law. Without such measures, the report suggests, the trend will likely continue upward.