2017 Annual Report of the Secretary-General on Children and Armed Conflict: A Global Concern

The United Nations has been fully committed to protecting children from the scourge of armed conflict, particularly within the international community's highest governing bodies such as the Security Council and General Assembly. Since the establishment of its monitoring mechanism in 2005, the UN has verified an alarming number of grave violations against children, with over 266,000 cases recorded in more than 30 conflict situations worldwide.

In recognition of this critical issue, France has made the protection of children in armed conflict an absolute priority. The country is also a driving force behind international efforts to prevent and reduce the recruitment of child soldiers. According to UNICEF, approximately 230 million children – nearly one in ten globally – live in areas or countries affected by armed conflict.

Children are often the first victims of conflict, and preventing their involvement in military operations is essential for their well-being and development. The United Nations has made significant progress in this regard, with over 170,000 child soldiers released in recent years. France has also been at the forefront of international efforts to address this issue, having celebrated the 15th anniversary of the Paris Principles and Commitments in 2017.

The Paris Principles and Commitments provide a framework for supporting the prevention, release, and reintegration of children affected by armed conflict, as well as combating impunity. France has been instrumental in mobilizing the international community to address this critical issue, using its position on the Security Council to push for greater action to protect children from the devastating effects of armed conflict.

In conclusion, the 2017 annual report of the Secretary-General on children and armed conflict highlights the urgent need for continued efforts to protect children from the horrors of war. The UN's monitoring mechanism has provided invaluable insights into the scale of the problem, while France's commitment to this cause serves as a beacon of hope for those affected by armed conflict. As we move forward, it is essential that governments and international organizations work together to prevent further violations and ensure that children are protected from harm.

2017 annual report of the secretary-general on children and armed conflict