19 years ago, on 12 February 2002, the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the involvement of children in armed conflict (OPAC) banned the participation of children under the age of 18 in hostilities. Since then, the day is used to raise awareness about the recruitment of children into armed forces and armed groups.
Today, it is estimated that there are tens of thousands of children in armed groups around the world. However, not all children in armed groups are soldiers. Boys and girls as young as eight may be recruited to fight on the front line, participate in suicide missions and act as spies, messengers and lookouts. Many are lured in my promises of education, security and money, and others are indoctrinated or forced.
The recruitment and use of boys and girls in armed conflict is one of the most horrific violations of children's rights. At War Child we hold children's rights at the centre of everything we do. We won't stop until every child is safe.
Majok Peter's Story
Majok Peter was just 7 when he was recruited into an armed group in South Sudan.
Now a Child Rights Campaigner at War Child, he is working to improve reintegration programs and help children deal with their experiences and re-enter their communities safely.
We provide psychosocial support to help children process their traumatic experiences, and we work with communities and schools to raise awareness and reduce the stigma that children often face when they return home.
Find out more about our work with CAAFAGs.
