International humanitarian law protection of children in armed conflicts

Abstract EN

Armed con flicts have very damaging effects on children as they horribly reduce their normal growth because of the closure of schools and hospitals as well as the destruction of crops, roads, and infrastructures of the country, in addition to the lack of security and reassurance.

These images frequently repeat themselves despite international efforts to alleviate these tragedies.

Besides, it is important to remember the tragedies indirectly experienced by children such as the loss of their parents and relatives, witnessing killings and tortures, banishment, and displacement.

Also, some children are victims of violence in the form of killing, maltreatment, internment, detention, rape, torture, and abduction.

The situation gets worse as children get involved and are forcibly recruited to fight, support the army, or work as spies.

It is worth mentioning that the age of most child soldiers ranges from 15 to 18 years, while some of them are not above the age of seven or eight.

This study aims to shed light on child recruitment to find real solutions and provide achievable recommendations to save children from recruitment under the International Humanitarian Law (IHL).