Unfairy Tales – Stories Never Meant for Children

29.03.2016 - A series of animated films have been launched by UNICEF in order to bring attention to the plight of the youngest victims of the Syrian refugee crisis.

Called ‘Unfairy Tales’, the three animations – true stories of the flight of children from conflict, animated in the style of a fairy tale – explain the horror behind why they fled.

The ‘Unfairy Tales’ are part of an initiative, #actofhumanity, emphasising that children are children, no matter where they come from, and that every child has rights and deserves a fair chance.

“Every day, everywhere, people are helping children out with small acts of humanity. These acts rarely make news but they are making all the difference in the world to individual refugee and migrant children. UNICEF wants to showcase these #actofhumanity to inspire others and show the way forward,” said Paloma Escudero, UNICEF’s head of communication.

One story – “Ivine and the Pillow” – animates the true story of 14-year-old Ivine and her pillow. After a perilous escape from Syria, Ivine settles at a refugee camp in Germany only to face new challenges. “Malak and the Boat”, tells the tale of a young girl’s voyage in a leaky boat. The third animation depicts the story of Mustafa, who after fleeing his home, wonders who is left to be his friend.

”The stories of the three children are not unusual. At least 65 million children and young people globally are on the move – escaping conflict, poverty and extreme weather - looking for a more stable life and a place to call home,” Escudero said.

UNICEF’s ask is simple: Show an #actofhumanity towards refugee and migrant children and young people, and use #actofhumanity to share stories and join the debate. 

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UNRICs Related Links

· UNICEF

· UNICEF YouTube Channel

· UN News Focus: Syria

Photo: UNICEF