"The Alarming Reality of Child Soldiers: A Growing Concern

The Alarming Reality of Child Soldiers: A Growing ConcernAs we mark the 35th anniversary of the United Nations' commitment to protect children from being recruited as soldiers, it's disheartening to note that armed groups have increased their recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. This disturbing trend has encroached upon our collective conscience, leaving us with a sense of unease and responsibility.Unfulfilled CommitmentThe United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted in 1989, marked a historic agreement that inspired governments to pass laws protecting children from violence and exploitation. Ten years later, a protocol prohibiting the recruitment and use as soldiers of all children under 18 years of age was adopted. To date, it has been ratified by 173 countries.Unfortunately, despite these efforts, armed groups have continued to recruit and use children in armed conflict. This problem is not limited to any one region or group; instead, it's a widespread issue that affects countries such as Colombia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Lake Chad basin, Mozambique, the Sahel, Sudan, Somalia, Syria, and Haiti.Devastating ConsequencesForced recruitment and use of children in armed conflict has devastating consequences for the young victims. Many are abducted and forcibly recruited, subjected to rape, sexual violence, and trafficking. The impact is not limited to the child; entire communities are affected by the loss of innocence, social disruption, and economic instability.A Call to ActionThe Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict has sounded a clear call to action. In a recent statement, Virginia Gamba, the Special Representative, emphasized the need for urgent attention:"The cries of these children echo across conflict zones, but far too often, the world remains silent. Their pain is a stain on our collective conscience. We must do better—because every moment we delay, another child becomes just another number in the long list of conflict-related casualties and violations."A Roadmap to ChangeMs. Gamba's statement offers a roadmap for change:1. Ensure Safe and Unimpeded Humanitarian Access: Guarantee that children have access to life-saving assistance without obstruction or restriction.2. Implement International Laws: Enforce laws prohibiting the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict.3. Reduce the Impact of Explosive Weapons: Minimize the devastating effect of explosive weapons on civilian populations.4. Protect Educational Institutions: Ensure that schools are not used as military targets or bases.5. Eradicate Anti-Personnel Landmines: Eliminate these deadly devices that continue to claim lives long after conflicts have ended.A New Year, A New OpportunityAs we enter 2025, let us choose compassion over indifference and peace over war. Together, we can rewrite the stories of these children—not with fear and loss, but with healing and hope. The transformation is possible when we work together to protect the most vulnerable among us.ConclusionThe recruitment of child soldiers is a growing concern that demands our collective attention. As we move forward into 2025, let us commit to creating a world where children are safe from harm, their voices heard, and their futures bright.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.