The percentage of children affected in armed conflict has almost doubled to 19% from around 10% in the 1990s. ADVERTISEMENTDespite being protected by international law, children are vulnerable to abuse, exploitation and trafficking during armed conflicts. Both during and after armed conflicts, children who have not suffered the direct results of conflicts suffer indirectly but equally devastating consequences, including inadequate and unsafe living conditions, separation from family, displacement-related health risks. Armed conflicts undermine nearly all protections guaranteed by the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. The multilateral system needs to respond more effectively to child rights violations in armed conflicts and to strengthen accountability and ensure non-negotiable compliance with international laws.

Source: The Telegraph January 03, 2026 02:38 UTC