group of friends for children and armed conflict

NATO’s approach to protecting children in armed conflict is based on legal, moral and political imperatives and contributes to the operational success, credibility and legitimacy of NATO’s missions, operations and activities.

A human security approach 2 allows a more comprehensive view of the human environment, consequently enhancing operational effectiveness and contributing to lasting peace and security.

As such, NATO’s recently adopted Human Security Approach and Guiding Principles 1, which is to be integrated across all core tasks, provides a heightened understanding of conflict and crisis.NATO remains firmly committed to the North Atlantic Treaty and the Charter of the United Nations (UN). Gender equality and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda are integral to sustainable peace, and are a reflection of our core values and priorities. NATO is committed to defending and promoting the principles of individual liberty, human rights, democracy and the rule of law.To better monitor, prevent, and end these attacks, the United Nations Security Council has identified and condemned six grave violations against children in times of war: Killing and maiming of children recruitment or use of children in armed forces and armed groups attacks on schools or hospitals rape or other grave sexual violence abduction of children and denial of humanitarian access for children. However, from widespread killing, maiming, abduction and sexual violence to recruitment into and use by armed forces and armed groups and attacks on schools and hospitals, as well as essential water facilities – children living in conflict zones around the world continue to come under attack on a shocking scale.

Armed forces and armed groups are required by international humanitarian law to take measures to protect civilians, including children, who are particularly vulnerable during times of armed conflict. Children affected by armed conflict must at all times be protected.

Group of friends for children and armed conflict