February 2026

ISPA Expresses Deep Concern for the Psychological Wellbeing of Children Affected by War

The International School Psychology Association (ISPA) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to peace, human dignity, and the protection of all children affected by violence and conflict. In line with its mission, ISPA has a moral and professional duty to oppose all wars and any form of violence that harms children, disrupts their development, or undermines their rights.

ISPA has previously issued an official statement condemning the war in Eastern Europe. Today, we extend that same stance to all contexts in which war devastates communities, disrupts childhoods, and threatens psychological wellbeing, including the ongoing and prolonged conflict around the world where children, families and communities continue to face persistent violence, displacement, and psychological trauma (a list of international reports documenting the impact of armed conflict on children and civilians will follow at the end of this statement).

Solidarity with Children and Communities in All War-Affected Regions

ISPA expresses its profound solidarity with all populations around the world who endure the catastrophic consequences of war, forced displacement, and violence. As psychologists dedicated to the wellbeing of children, families, and school communities, we are deeply concerned about the severe impact that ongoing conflicts have on the mental health and development of children and young people.

The terror of war, loss of loved ones, destruction of homes and schools, and forced separation from safe and familiar environments create conditions that can leave lasting psychological wounds. No child should have to navigate fear, trauma, or the loss of basic protections needed to grow and thrive.

ISPA also expresses its deep solidarity with on psychologists working in schools, mental health professionals, and educators working in regions directly impacted by war. We recognize their extraordinary commitment to supporting children and families under conditions of extreme danger, loss, and instability. ISPA stands with these professionals as they provide essential psychological care, create safe spaces for learning, and uphold the dignity and wellbeing of communities living through armed conflict. We reaffirm our support for their resilience, their service, and their vital role in protecting children’s rights amid the devastation of war.

Condemnation of All Forms of Violence and Aggression

ISPA strongly condemns all forms of violence and aggression that rob children of their sense of safety, stability, and hope for future. We oppose every action, by any actor, in any region, that inflicts psychological harm on innocent civilians, especially children.

We call upon school and educational psychologists, educational institutions and psychology associations in every country to make this cause their own:

  • to advocate for peace and non-violence,
  • to provide trauma-informed psychological support,
  • and to stand firmly against policies or behaviors that perpetuate cycles of fear, grief, and destruction.

Commitment to Recovery, Resilience, and Children’s Rights

As an international community of school and educational psychologists, we recognize the devastating effects of war, forced displacement, and bereavement on mental health, learning, and development. We reaffirm our collective responsibility to promote resilience, healing, and the right of every child to learn and grow in safety and peace, regardless of nationality, religion, language, or political circumstance.

To support school psychologists, educators, and families, ISPA offers a comprehensive set of tools and guidance for crisis and conflict situations. These include the Resources for Supporting Children During Wartime (collection and ISPA’s extensive Crisis Intervention & Violence Prevention Resources, which provide evidence-informed strategies for trauma response, psychological first aid, and promoting safety and resilience in schools and communities affected by violence.

ISPA urges the global community, including governments, educational institutions, humanitarian organizations, and policymakers, to prioritize mental health support for all those affected by conflict and to uphold the universal rights and dignity of children worldwide.

A Call for Peace

ISPA stands united in compassion, solidarity, and professional responsibility.
We speak out for the children of every nation and region suffering the trauma of war and for a world in which peace, protection, and psychological wellbeing are guaranteed for all.

This statement was jointly drafted by the ISPA Executive Committee, the Social and Emotional Learning Task Force, and the International Crisis Response Interest Group.