THURSDAY, March 28, 2024
nationthailand

Unicef's integration efforts for released child soldiers

Unicef's integration efforts for released child soldiers

Unicef in Myanmar is working on the reintegration programmes designed for children formerly associated with armed forces and released recently.

“Reintegration of children formerly associated with the armed forces requires long-term efforts,” said Bertrand Bainvel, Unicef Representative to Myanmar.
In Myanmar, a Joint Action Plan has been signed between the UN and the Government of Myanmar to end and prevent the recruitment and use of children by the Armed Forces. Under this plan, 595 children and young people have been discharged, 70 per cent of whom were released in the last twelve months.
“We are committed to making sure that reintegration programmes promote the best interests of the child. They should seek to enhance children’s self-esteem, promote their capacity to protect their own integrity, to construct a positive life, and to avoid falling into similarly risky situations such as trafficking, sexual exploitation and drug abuse,” Bainvel said.
Unicef and the Office of the Special Representative yesterday called for urgent action to end grave violations against children including their recruitment and use by armed groups. To mark the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers, they said children are increasingly vulnerable to recruitment and use by armed groups as conflicts around the world become more brutal, intense and widespread.
Unicef works with partners to support children once they are released from armed groups. This includes reunifying them with their families and providing them with health care, basic necessities and psychological support as well as access to education and training programmes.
 
 
RELATED
nationthailand