Child Soldiers

Children are used in wars in three  ways: directly in conflicts, in supporting roles (vedettes, messangers, spies), or as political tools (human shields or propaganda instruments).

International conventions have been signed starting in the 1970s, aiming to limit children’s participation in conflicts; however, it seems that the use of child soldiers has increased in the last decade.

Some countries believe that no minor under the age of 18 can be enrolled. The Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, regarding the engagement of children in armed conflicts,  sets the minimum age to participate to hostilities at 18.