Child soldiers in contemporary conflicts: the persistence of the phenomenon in light of International Humanitarian Law

DOI: https://zenodo.org/records/15064906

Abstract

This article seeks to discuss the use and mobilization of child soldiers in armed conflicts through a historical approach, with the goal to signal the evolution of the practice over the years. The aim is to understand whether the practice is still common around the world, despite international efforts to the contrary. The way in which recruitment and exploitation by state and non-state armed groups occurs will be investigated based on study cases, treaties and norms of International Humanitarian Law generated by the attempt to eliminate this phenomenon. In this regard, the Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols, the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court will be addressed, seeking to reflect on the protection of children and the accountability of perpetrators of this type of violence. Finally, the analysis of socioeconomic factors will be pertinent, aiming to elucidate which ones help to perpetuate conflicts and, more precisely, the practice of recruiting minors. Furthermore, the last section will also address the challenges of reintegrating child soldiers into their communities.