Preventing Children from Joining Armed Groups

Summary

In situations of armed conflict or violence, a significant number of children below the age of eighteen join armed groups on their own volition. That they do so challenges received ideas of children as vulnerable or passive victims and provides evidence that they are also creative and resilient actors aiming to improve their lives. This article examines their reasons for “joining up”.

In order to further preventive action in their behalf, it adopts the probabilistic notion of “children at risk” and describes the complex set of interrelated individual and environmental factors that have been found to enhance or decrease the likelihood that children will join armed groups. It discusses how preventive responses may be tailored to specific levels of risk and also examines the lessons learnt so far in this field. It concludes by describing responsibilities within and beyond the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and suggests possible ways ahead.