War & Law

Children

Children are especially vulnerable in armed conflicts. Despite the protection provided by law, they continue to be recruited by armed forces and armed groups. They are often separated from their families, driven from their homes, killed, maimed, sexually abused or exploited in other ways. Read full overview

Highlights

Treaty Law

Customary law

Other persons afforded specific protection

Reference documents

Analysis

Optional Protocol on the involment of children in armed conflict to the Convention on the Rights of the Child

30-09-2000 | International Review of the Red Cross | Daniel Helle

International Review of the Red Cross More articles

Domestic law

In images More images

Publications More publications

Children affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence

This report sheds light on the different initiatives taken by the Movement to reintegrate into society children associated with armed forces or armed groups.
Children in war

This brochure examines the risks faced by children caught up in armed conflict, the steps taken by the ICRC to address their specific needs, and the rules of law defined to protect them.