Legal Status and Protection of Children Associated With Armed Forces or Armed Groups

Abstract

In recent years, following numerous conflicts happening in various directions, children are often helpless witnesses and participants in horrendous acts during wartime. We often see children frequently forced to flee to avoid being imprisoned, injured or killed, or otherwise separated fromт their families. Despite existing regulations to end child recruitment and prevent children from participating in hostilities, activities concerning the enlistment or conscription of children by Armed Forces or Armed Groups still continues, putting them in danger and depriving them of some of their most basic rights. Henceforth, further efforts have to be made tot prevent the participation in hostilities by children, and only then can we ensure that children have the chance to develop and reach their full potential fully. By employing a normative method and utilizing statutory research, conceptual research, and case study analysis to investigate the complexities surrounding children's participation in hostilities, specifically, focusing on two perspectives: direct participation in hostilities and continuous combat function, the research seeks to clarify the legal status of children associated with armed forces and armed groups. Furthermore, by exploring these perspectives, the aim of this research is to contribute to the ongoing legal discourse on children in armed conflicts and propose measures to ensure their adequate protection. These findings may provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners working to safeguard the rights and well-being of children affected by armed conflicts.