Ahead of International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers, which is commemorated on February 12, Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict Vanessa Frazier said recruitment and exploitation remain widespread despite global commitments to end the practice.

Frazier said more than 7 400 children were verified as recruited or used by armed forces and armed groups in 2024. She noted that the true number is likely far higher due to challenges in verification. Over the past 30 years, the UN has helped separate more than 220 000 children from armed actors.

Her office monitors around 26 conflict situations worldwide. Violations are most common in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nigeria, Somalia, Syria and Myanmar. She also raised growing concern about Sudan, where children are increasingly targeted for roles as border guards, labourers and fighters.

Frazier stressed that behind every statistic is a child whose life has been shattered. She said the loss of safety, education and family stability can shape a child’s entire future.

The mandate’s work goes beyond documenting violations. Frazier said her office regularly negotiates with armed actors to secure the release of children. After separation, the UN Children’s Fund and partners provide psychosocial support, schooling and reintegration services to help young people rebuild their lives.

Reintegration, however, is often a formidable challenge. Frazier said girls in particular face severe stigma on their return, especially if they return with babies. In some communities, returning girls are viewed as unacceptable or unable to reintegrate fully, which compounds their trauma.

Frazier said the international community must intensify prevention efforts while strengthening protection systems, accountability and community reintegration support. She warned that unless political and humanitarian actors prioritise child protection, global conflicts will continue to consume children’s futures.

–UN/ChannelAfrica–