By Mohammed Mahuruf

Children have always been the most vulnerable and innocent casualties of any conflict. Past conflicts have had a devastating impact on children’s lives, and ongoing conflicts continue to perpetuate their suffering. The UN has made efforts to protect children in conflict zones, but their effectiveness has been limited due to the misuse of the veto system and geopolitical games. The children have undergone immense suffering, both physically and psychologically, due to wars and conflicts. This article aims to explore why children are often the first victims of conflict, examining past conflicts and ongoing wars, the suffering children face, the efforts made by the United Nations (UN), the responsibilities of warring parties in safeguarding children and measures that can be taken to protect children in all wars, including civil wars.

Conflicts and Child Victims

Over the past century, numerous wars and conflicts have resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives with children being significantly impacted. World War I (1914 -1918) witnessed the deaths of approximately 1.6 million children due to direct combat, bombings and starvation. World War II (1939 -1945) proved even more devastating with an estimated six million children losing their lives.

Beyond the world wars, there were conflicts such as the Korean War (1950 – 1953), the Vietnam War (1955 – 1975), and the Rwandan genocide (April – July 1994). The effects of these conflicts on children were devastating. The Korean War, for example, resulted in the deaths of around 500,000 children. The Vietnam War was no different, with an estimated two million child casualties. The Rwandan genocide specifically targeted children, resulting in the death of approximately 500,000 children in just 100 days.

Countries such as Afghanistan, the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Libya, Mali, Somalia, South Sudan, and Syria are all currently experiencing civil conflicts, resulting in significant casualties and displacement among the general population. Unfortunately, children are the most vulnerable during times of conflict and suffer disproportionately from the effects of civil wars.

Israeli-Palestinian conflict

The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict has had severe and long-lasting consequences for the lives of children living in the region.  UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the devastating impact on children when he said “Gaza is becoming a graveyard for children”. France 24, quoting the Gaza health ministry, reported on December 2, 2023, that more than 15,200 people, including about 6,000 children, have been killed in the Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip since October 7. As a result of the conflict, children have suffered physical and psychological trauma, educational disruptions, and limited access to their basic needs, such as healthcare and clean water. The cycle of violence and instability perpetuated by the conflict has denied children their right to a peaceful and secure childhood, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.

According to the United Nations, over the past two decades, thousands of children have been killed or injured in the clashes. The constant fear of bombings, shootings and airstrikes has left children traumatized, leading to long-term psychological distress and difficulties in coping with daily life. The loss of family members and friends due to the conflict further exacerbates their emotional burden, often resulting in depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Consequences of Children in Civil Conflicts

Civil wars in countries like Syria, Yemen, and South Sudan have resulted in a horrific death toll of children. In Syria, since the start of the civil war in 2011, an estimated 30,000 children have been killed and tens of thousands have been injured or displaced. Similarly, in Yemen, fighting between Houthi rebels and the Saudi coalition has led to the deaths of over 2,000 children and left nearly 12 million in need of humanitarian assistance. In South Sudan, children face abduction, forced recruitment as child soldiers, sexual violence and denial of access to education and healthcare.

One of the most devastating impacts of civil wars on children is the high number of casualties. Conflict zones are bursting with violence, bombings, and armed clashes that put children’s lives at risk. They often become victims of direct attacks or get caught in crossfire, which leads to death or severe injuries. Children are also subject to psychological trauma, witnessing and experiencing violence, displacement, separation from their families and the loss of loved ones. The disruptions of essential services such as healthcare, education, and nutrition further exacerbate their suffering, leading to malnutrition, disease, and limited access to education. This compromises their physical and mental development exposing them to preventable diseases, resulting in high infant and child mortality rates.

Another common impact of war is disability, which can affect children in various ways. They may be exposed to airstrikes, explosions, gunfire and bombings, which can result in physical injuries resulting in amputations, burns, or spinal cord injuries. Additionally, when caught up in crossfire or intentionally targeted, children can suffer permanent disabilities or even lose their lives. Moreover, the psychological trauma endured during war can also lead to various disabilities, as the stress and fear experienced can have long-lasting effects on a child’s mental health.

Civil wars also lead to mass displacement, forcing families to flee their homes and seek safety in overcrowded displacement camps or neighbouring countries. These living conditions are often inadequate, with limited access to basic needs. Children in displacement camps are particularly vulnerable to exploitation, abuse and trafficking. The loss of stability, familiar surroundings and support networks also have a profound impact on their emotional well-being, leading to increased levels of stress, anxiety and trauma.

What Can Child Protection Organizations Do?

Child protection organizations play a crucial role in advocating for the rights and well-being of children affected by conflicts. They provide direct support to children and their families, including psychosocial counselling, emergency assistance and protection services. These organizations also engage in awareness-raising, lobbying governments and international bodies and conducting research to inform policy and programming interventions.

The destruction of infrastructure and ongoing violence makes it difficult for humanitarian organisations to provide sufficient aid to the affected areas. As a result, children often lack access to proper medical care, leading to higher rates of illness and preventable deaths. Limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities also increases the risk of waterborne disease, further compromising their health and well-being.

United Nations Efforts and Failures

The United Nations, through various agencies and mechanisms, has made efforts to protect children in conflict zones. The Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted in 1989, sets out the rights of children and calls for their protection in all circumstances. The UN Security Council has also taken steps to address the issue of child protection in conflicts, including the establishment of child protection mandates and the inclusion of child protection provisions in peacekeeping operations.

However, the UN’s efforts have not always been successful. The UN Security Council’s permanent members’ veto power has frequently impeded effective action. For example, in the Syrian conflict, the repeated use of the veto by Russia and China has prevented resolutions that sought to hold perpetrators accountable for grave violations against children. This has perpetuated the suffering of children in conflict.

International Obligations to Protect Children in Conflict Situations

The protection of children in conflict situations is a significant international obligation. Warring parties must adhere to international humanitarian law, which prohibits attacks on civilians and emphasizes the principle of distinction, ensuring children are not targeted. Countries should ratify and implement international conventions such as the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Optional Protocols to the CRC, integrating them into national laws and policies.

National governments, with support from international organizations, should establish child protection mechanisms in conflict-affected areas. These mechanisms should include child-friendly reporting channels, safe spaces for children and trained personnel to provide psychosocial support. Access to education should be ensured for affected children with the implementation of temporary learning spaces with trained teachers and provisions for psychosocial support should be made available. Parties involved in conflicts should allow safe and unhindered access for humanitarian organisations to help children and their families.

Efforts should be made to disarm and demobilize child soldiers, providing them with psychosocial support, education, vocational training, and opportunities for reintegration into society. Perpetrators of grave violations against children should be held accountable at the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court.

Additionally, the international community should advocate for the establishment and support of early warning systems at the civilian level. These systems could prevent violent conflicts by detecting and addressing potential triggers or tensions before they escalate. Sustainable peace-building initiatives should be promoted to address both the immediate consequences and underlying root causes of conflicts. Transitional justice mechanisms must be emphasised to ensure accountability for human rights abuses and atrocities, contributing to reconciliation and healing in post-conflict societies.

Fostering Empathy and Peace Amidst Conflict

The ongoing conflicts and their consequences for children have also perpetuated a cycle of rage, revenge, and hopelessness. Growing up in an environment characterized by violence and hostility hinders the development of empathy and peaceful conflict-resolution skills. Children who witness or experience violence are more likely to become radicalized and seek revenge, perpetuating the cycle of violence for future generations.

Addressing the consequences of the conflict for children requires a multifaceted approach. Immediate steps must be taken to ensure the protection of children during times of conflict, including strict adherence to international humanitarian law. Adequate support and resources should be provided to address the psychological trauma and emotional needs of affected children. Efforts should also be made to rebuild and improve water, sanitation, education and healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that children have access to quality education and essential services. Additionally, efforts must be made to promote peace and reconciliation, fostering a culture of dialogue, and understanding among children from both sides of the conflict.

Another world is possible!!!

-Mohammed Mahuruf is Executive Direct PEaCE/ECPAT Sri Lanka