Children and fighting forces: 10 years on from Cape Town |
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Authors: | Lindsay Stark Neil Boothby Alastair Ager |
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Institution: | Senior Research Associate, Program on Forced Migration and Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, United States;, Professor of Global Health, Program on Forced Migration and Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, United States;, Professor of Clinical Population and Family Health, Program on Forced Migration and Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, United States |
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Abstract: | It is 10 years since the adoption of the Cape Town Principles and Best Practices on the Prevention of Recruitment of Children into the Armed Forces and on Demobilization and Social Reintegration of Child Soldiers in Africa. The field of programming for the reintegration of children associated with armed forces and armed groups has made significant strides in this period. However, important gaps in the knowledge base remain. This paper examines empirical evidence that supports lessons learned from work with children formerly connected with fighting forces. It evaluates what is known, where promising practice exists, and lacunae in five programming areas: psychosocial support and care; community acceptance; education, training and livelihoods; inclusive programming for all war-affected children; and follow-up and monitoring. While the 2007 Paris Commitments to Protect Children from Unlawful Recruitment or Use by Armed Forces or Groups mark an emerging consensus on many issues, there is still a critical need for more systematic studies to develop the evidence base supporting intervention in this area. |
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Keywords: | Cape Town Principles child soldiers community acceptance education inclusive programming Paris Commitments Paris Principles psychosocial support reintegration war-affected youth |
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