The Global Story:How does war affect a child’s brain?

The long-term effects of war on children's brains are examined through the experiences and insights of veteran BBC war correspondent Fergal Keane. Drawing from his extensive coverage of conflicts, including the Rwandan genocide, Keane reflects on the immediate and lasting trauma inflicted on children in war zones, highlighting the staggering statistic that one in five children worldwide currently live in conflict areas. Keane emphasizes the importance of family and community stability in a child's recovery, referencing research from the Bosnian Civil War. His personal experiences with PTSD, stemming from both childhood and war reporting, underscore the need for proactive mental health care and the importance of love and support in overcoming trauma. He shares the story of Valentina, a genocide survivor, to illustrate the resilience of the human spirit.