Geetansh Kathuria, Amity Law School
INTRODUCTION
Imagine being a child, brimming with aspirations and joyous mirth. Now, picture that child in the midst of a war, holding a gun instead of a toy. This is the distressing truth faced by numerous children worldwide who are compelled to serve as combatants in armed situations.
During this debate, we will examine the reasons and methods behind this occurrence. Certain children are abducted against their will, but others opt to join due to a perceived lack of alternatives in their challenging circumstances. We will examine the roles assigned to these youngsters inside armed groups, the emotional impact it has on them, and the global efforts to combat this injustice.
Child soldiers endure experiences that they should never have to encounter. This discussion is around comprehending their hardships and devising methods to assist them in reconstructing their lives once the firearms cease their activity. Although it is a challenging subject, it is crucial if we aim to ensure that every child has the opportunity to mature without the lingering effects of armed conflict.
In recent years, the use of child soldiers has become a global problem, with statistics estimating that tens of thousands of children are engaging in violent conflicts around the world. This is a significant infringement of children's rights, and the world community recognises it as such. Anyone under the age of 18 who is recruited or utilised by an armed group in any capacity, including as a combatant, porter, messenger, or sex slave.
