Sana’a, Yemen – The educational landscape in Yemen is facing a catastrophic collapse, exacerbated by ongoing conflict and political instability. For over a decade, the country has been deeply divided, with the Houthi movement controlling much of the north and various separatist groups vying for power in the south. This protracted conflict has had a devastating impact on the nation’s schools, teachers, and, most importantly, its children, leaving over half the population reliant on humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations.
The situation is particularly dire for girls and women, who are increasingly forced to navigate societal taboos to support their families as many men are engaged in fighting. The disruption to education not only jeopardizes their future prospects but also increases their vulnerability to recruitment by armed groups. The crisis extends beyond physical damage to schools; it encompasses a systemic breakdown of the educational system, leaving a generation at risk of being left behind.
A Decade of Division and Disruption
Yemen’s descent into conflict began in earnest around 2014, escalating with the intervention of a Saudi-led coalition in 2015. This intervention aimed to restore the internationally recognized government, ousted by the Houthis, but has instead contributed to a complex and protracted civil war. The conflict has directly impacted educational infrastructure, with schools damaged or destroyed by airstrikes and fighting. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have also been accused of using schools as military bases, further endangering students and teachers.
Beyond the physical destruction, the economic consequences of the war have crippled the education system. Teachers have gone unpaid for extended periods, leading to mass resignations and a severe shortage of qualified educators. Families struggling to survive often prioritize immediate needs over education, pulling children out of school to work or contribute to household income. This economic pressure is particularly acute for girls, who are often the first to be withdrawn from education during times of hardship.
Houthis’ Crackdown on UN and Civil Society Workers
The already fragile situation is further complicated by the Houthis’ increasing crackdown on United Nations staff and civil society organizations working in Yemen. Since 2021, the Houthis have arbitrarily detained 53 UN staff, hindering the UN’s ability to deliver critical assistance. Nine more UN employees were detained in October 2025, sparking widespread condemnation from the international community. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has repeatedly called for the immediate and unconditional release of all detained personnel.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have documented a series of raids carried out by the Houthis, beginning on May 31, 2024, resulting in the arbitrary detention of 13 UN staff and at least 50 staff from Yemeni and international civil society organizations. Further arrests occurred between January 23 and 25, 2025, with another eight UN staff members detained. These actions have forced the UN to suspend official movements into and within Houthi-controlled areas, severely impacting humanitarian operations and the delivery of essential aid.
Impact on Humanitarian Aid Delivery
The detention of humanitarian workers has a direct and detrimental impact on the delivery of lifesaving assistance to a population in critical need. The UN estimates that over half of Yemen’s population requires humanitarian aid, and the disruption caused by the Houthis’ actions exacerbates an already dire situation. The inability of aid organizations to operate freely and safely hinders their ability to reach those most vulnerable, including children, women, and internally displaced persons.
The Houthis have justified their crackdown by alleging that some UN and civil society staff are linked to espionage networks, a claim that has been widely dismissed by the international community. The arrests are seen as an attempt to control the flow of information and suppress dissent, further isolating Yemen from the outside world.
The Plight of Women and Girls
The conflict in Yemen has disproportionately affected women and girls, who face increased risks of violence, exploitation, and discrimination. With many men fighting on the front lines, women are often left to shoulder the responsibility of providing for their families, breaking societal norms in the process. The disruption to education further exacerbates their vulnerability, limiting their opportunities and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
The lack of access to education also increases the risk of child marriage, as families may see it as a way to alleviate economic hardship or protect their daughters from violence. According to UNICEF, the rate of child marriage has increased significantly in Yemen since the start of the conflict. The long-term consequences of child marriage are devastating, including health problems, limited educational opportunities, and increased vulnerability to domestic violence.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Action
The situation in Yemen remains deeply concerning, with the educational system on the brink of collapse. Addressing this crisis requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including the Houthis, the internationally recognized government, and the international community. The immediate and unconditional release of all detained UN and civil society staff is crucial to restoring humanitarian operations and ensuring that aid reaches those in need.
sustained investment in education is essential to rebuilding Yemen’s future. This includes providing financial support to teachers, rehabilitating damaged schools, and ensuring that all children, particularly girls, have access to quality education. A long-term solution to the crisis requires a political settlement that addresses the root causes of the conflict and promotes stability and inclusivity.
The UN Security Council is scheduled to discuss the situation in Yemen on March 15, 2026, and is expected to address the ongoing detention of humanitarian workers and the deteriorating humanitarian situation. The outcome of this meeting could have significant implications for the future of Yemen and its people.
The crisis in Yemen’s education system is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict on human development. Without immediate and sustained action, a generation of Yemeni children risks being lost to poverty, violence, and despair.
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