Hard-Hitting Sequel To Viral Video Imagining The UK As Syria Released By Save The Children

New "Still Most Shocking Second a Day" film gives child's view on the terrifying reality for thousands of children fleeing conflict

News provided by

Save the Children

May 09, 2016, 01:01 ET

FAIRFIELD, Conn., May 9, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- In recognition of the devastating impact that the refugee crisis is having on children, Save the Children is launching the sequel to its "Most Shocking Second a Day" viral video, which amassed over 50 million views and was one of the most successful viral videos of the last two years.

The new film, "Still Most Shocking Second a Day" picks up where the previous one left off, following the story of a young girl forced to leave behind everything she's ever known after a hypothetical war breaks out on the streets of London.

A scene from Save the Children's Still the Most Shocking Second a Day film, which imagines a young British girl fleeing war in the UK and embarking on a dangerous journey. Photo credit: Don't Panic for Save the Children.

The video highlights the terrifying reality for thousands of children fleeing conflict, as seen through a child's eyes, following 11-year-old Lily as she escapes the UK to embark on a dangerous journey in search of a new life.

Risking their lives in over-crowded boats, frightened and vulnerable, a total of over 325,000* children have now crossed the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas, fleeing war, poverty and persecution in search of a better, safer life. An estimated 340* children have drowned since September - that's an average of two children a day.

Inspired by the stories of child refugees that Save the Children has assisted in Europe and the Middle East, the film reimagines Britain as a conflict zone, as if the refugee crisis were happening in London.

"This video captures the terrible experiences of thousands of children every day, many undertaking horrific journeys that no one should ever have to endure. We wanted to bring home the reality of what it's like for those children, to capture the public's attention," said Carolyn Miles, president and CEO of Save the Children.

"Lily's journey is like those of hundreds of thousands of other child refugees searching for a better life.

"This is a generation of children who have lost everything- their home, their education, their family and in some cases their lives. Save the Children is calling for more support for children fleeing these conflict zones. We want a new deal for refugees, to ensure every child gets an education, protection and a fair start in life.

"Unless the international community provides safe and legal routes to families fleeing war and persecution, children will continue to undertake dangerous journeys in search of safety."

Save the Children gives children in the United States and around the world a healthy start, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We invest in childhood — every day, in times of crisis and for our future. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

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SOURCE Save the Children