Imagine being raised not as a lighthearted child playing games and laughing, but rather being molded into a machine of war. What seems inconceivable for many around the world is the appalling reality for many in Africa. The children are not to blame, rather the monsters that kidnap and brainwash them to be used as soldiers in their army.
It is a difficult problem to stop, but a problem that requires international attention. It may be gaining some international consideration, as almost 60 nations, including 10 the UN believes still have child soldiers, signed an accord to put a stop to the use of child soldiers as well as disarm all existing child soldiers. The accord will obligate nations to find and liberate child soldiers as well as punish those who recruited them.
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
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States should tackle reasons why children join armed groups
No amnesty for those who commit crimes against children
Child soldiers who commit crimes are victims not criminals
Countries must to strive to prevent, protect and reintegrate children
The needs of girl soldiers must be addressed
Efforts must be made to reunite scattered families
Cited above are the aims of the Paris Accords, the agreement signed by countrties who pledge to end the use of child soldiers.
I hate being the pessimist in situations like this, but everytime I hear of countries signing some new international agreement, I roll my eyes. THis agreement was initiated by UNICEF, which is a part of the UN. Although all of these countries sign such an agreement, there is no way in hell that anyone can enforce it. The article says that 10 countries who are thought to have child soldiers have signed on. Although the article makes this sound encouraging, I can hardly be encouraged. THis is just another pretty little document. But what will it it ACTUALLY do?
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