Nepalgunj, March 22:

Armed conflict in Nepal affected more than 60 per cent children in 2005, according to a UNICEF report.

A survey conducted by the UNICEF said in nine countries — listed as most hazardous countries in the world apart from Nepal — Laos, Afghanistan, Chechnya, Cambodia, Colombia, Burundi, Bosnia, Sri Lanka, the rate of children affected by the armed conflict stood at 58 per cent, 50, 33, 31, 25, 25, 17 and 16 per cent respectively.

The data showed that 21 children were killed while 55 others were injured in 2005.

Nepal has ranked as the 10th country in the world in terms of violence against children.

The participants at an interaction held between mediapersons and the UNICEF representatives here today said Nepal is the most hazardous country for children due to explosions and crossfire.

Catheline Bais of the UNICEF said stray bombs pose threat to the children in future as well.

At the interaction, discussions were also held on how children can be saved from such risks.

Three dozen journalists participated in the interaction.

The participants also discussed the techniques of conflict reporting during the programme.