Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, stated that the recruitment of children is part of the broader child rights crisis in the country. On Wednesday, February 12, Bennett marked “International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers,” highlighting how the prohibition of education, forced labor, and economic hardships expose children […] The post Richard Bennett: Child recruitment part of broader Child Rights Crisis in Afghanistan appeared first on Khaama Press.
Richard Bennett, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan, highlighted the issue of child recruitment as part of a broader child rights crisis in the country during a statement on International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, marked annually on February 12. He emphasized how factors such as the prohibition of education, forced labor, and economic hardships increase children's vulnerability to armed violence. Bennett stressed the need for immediate action to protect children in conflict zones, stressing their vulnerability to recruitment, exploitation, and violence. The UN's 2002 Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child prohibits the use of children under 15 in armed conflict. Addressing root causes like poverty and lack of education is crucial to protecting children's rights and ensuring stability in affected nations.
