�� Statement by Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN Vassily Nebenzia at UNSC Briefing on “Children, technology, and education in conflict” (New York, March 2, 2026)

�� Vassily Nebenzia: Children's access to education is one of the fundamental rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Moreover, respect for this right is an imperative for humankind if humankind is really striving to pursue the path of progress.

Education is what should make a kid heir to endless scientific, spiritual, moral, and ethical treasures accumulated by all of humanity.

☝️ Education is not merely an aggregated knowledge that is now accessible online and can be mastered by artificial intelligence; education is called upon to develop a person's moral sense and aptitude for creation; thus, education gives the most important thing that distinguishes humankind from animals and increasingly capable robots. <...>

Today, we must spare no effort to ensure that during armed conflicts children's education is safeguarded to every extent possible.

❗️ Lack of access to education makes children even more vulnerable to violence and recruitment into armed groups.

Technology and innovation do have a significant potential as tools for improving children’s lot in armed conflict. With educational institutions closed due to hostilities, remote education technologies do come into play but they cannot replace a full-fledged educational process.

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Russia is not conducting targeted strikes on educational facilities and we have consistently advocated for ensuring comprehensive protection of minors and respecting the civilian nature of educational infrastructure.

�� The Russian Armed Forces strictly adhere to the norms of international humanitarian law when conducting our special military operation.

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