Grave violations against children have reached shocking levels in 2024, a new report of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict to the General Assembly shows. Covering the period from August 2024 to July 2025, the report highlights the devastating toll of armed conflicts on children, including displacement, starvation, and death.
Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, Acting SRSG, said, “Children are paying a huge price. Ensuring lasting peace is the only way to protect them.”
Progress Through Partnerships and Dialogue
Despite worsening violations, the report underscores achievements through multistakeholder engagement. Dialogue with parties to conflicts has led to the signing of over 40 action plans.
These efforts have released more than 220,000 children from armed forces and groups. Handover protocols have been successfully implemented in Afghanistan, Sudan, the Central African Republic, and Yemen.
Advocacy Campaign Puts Children’s Voices First
The SRSG launched the ‘Prove It Matters’ campaign in March 2025. This campaign focuses global attention on the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The initiative places children’s voices at the center of advocacy efforts.
The campaign aims to galvanize international support for children affected by conflict and highlight the urgent need to uphold their rights.
Urgent Call for Sustained Resources
The report stresses that children in conflict zones face acute humanitarian and protection needs. Funding and resources for child protection must be sustained and strengthened to address the growing crisis.
As the mandate approaches its 30th anniversary, the SRSG emphasizes the importance of maintaining international commitment to child protection.
Protecting Children as a Path to Peace
Dr. M’jid concluded, “Protecting children contributes to breaking cycles of conflict and promotes sustainable peace. The international community must recommit to this mission.”
The report serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of children in armed conflict and the ongoing global responsibility to safeguard their rights.
