What does the Geneva Convention say about child soldiers?

Article 50, second paragraph, of the 1949 Geneva Convention IV, provides that the occupying power may not enlist children “in formations or organizations subordinate to it”.

Does Sudan use child soldiers?

JUBA, 26 FEBRUARY 2020 – Today, 15 children associated with armed forces and armed groups were released in South Sudan, UNICEF said. The boys ranging from 16 to 18 years of age were taken as prisoners of war during clashes in the northern parts of the country in 2019.

When did Sudan start using child soldiers?

During the second civil war that occurred in Sudan, between 1983 and 2005, many children were forced to serve in armed conflict. The armies on both sides of this civil war had enlisted children to fight.

What are the 6 grave violations?

Six grave violations against children in times of war

  • Killing and maiming of children.
  • Recruitment or use of children in armed forces and armed groups.
  • Attacks on schools or hospitals.
  • Rape or other grave sexual violence.
  • Abduction of children.
  • Denial of humanitarian access for children.

Is child soldiers a war crime?

Recruiting and using children under the age of 15 as soldiers is prohibited under international humanitarian law – treaty and custom – and is defined as a war crime by the International Criminal Court.

Which country has the most child soldiers?

A new report by the United Nations Children’s Fund says children in West and Central Africa have become the most recruited by armed groups in the world and have the highest number of victims of sexual violence.

What is Sudan doing about child soldiers?

In 2013, the government of Sudan and the Justice and Equality Movement signed a ceasefire agreement including obligations towards the protection of children. In 2016, Sudan signed an Action Plan with the United Nations to prevent the recruitment of children by its armed forces.

What do child soldiers do in South Sudan?

Depending on age, boys are either used as porters, cleaners, or are trained to fight. Girls are often taken as “wives”, and often return in their communities with children.

What is the punishment for child soldiers?

Whoever violates, or attempts or conspires to violate, subsection (a) shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 20 years, or both and, if death of any person results, shall be fined under this title and imprisoned for any term of years or for life.

What rights are violated with child soldiers?

“Child victims who have been forced or lured into armed groups suffer a broad range of human rights violations and abuses, including their right to life, right to not be subjected to sexual violence or other forms of torture, right to education and right to freedom of thought conscience and religion,” said Saeed Mokbil …

What are the grave violations against children?

Notes for editors: The six grave violations are: Killing and maiming of children; Recruitment and use of children by armed forces and armed groups; Sexual violence against children; Attacks against schools or hospitals; Abduction of children; and denial of humanitarian access for children.