War Child Voices Concern Over Child Recruitment Amid Violence in South Sudan

War Child warns about the rising threat of child recruitment in South Sudan amid escalating violence. Approximately 5.4 million children are at risk, with 4.5 million needing urgent humanitarian assistance. The organization emphasizes the importance of protecting children’s rights and providing essential support during the conflict.

As violence escalates in South Sudan, War Child expresses serious concern for the 5.4 million children and youth at risk of armed group recruitment. The ongoing clashes near Juba, Western Equatoria, and Upper Nile states have displaced approximately 50,000 individuals since February, with 10,000 fleeing to Ethiopia. This turmoil exacerbates existing humanitarian crises for 4.5 million children requiring urgent assistance, vulnerable to gender-based violence and educational disruption.

Zerihun Yohannes, War Child’s Country Director, emphasizes that children are facing dire consequences due to the escalating conflict. “Children who should be learning in the classroom or playing with their friends are instead being stripped of their rights and being forced again to bear the burdens of war.” He highlights that as tensions rise, the risk of children being recruited into armed conflict also increases, potentially leading to severe psychological challenges.

War Child is actively monitoring the situation while maintaining their essential services, including mental health support, education, and child protection. In 2024, they supported 689 children, facilitating reunification with caregivers and providing psychosocial and cash assistance. With the deteriorating situation, War Child is committed to protecting at-risk children and caregivers.

The organization urges all conflicting parties to pursue a peaceful resolution that safeguards South Sudan’s children, many of whom have spent their entire lives amidst violence. Upholding children’s rights and securing their futures is paramount to breaking the cycle of conflict.

As a global entity, War Child emphasizes that no child initiates war, yet an estimated 478 million live within conflict zones. They focus on enhancing the resilience and well-being of these children through psychosocial support, child protection, and education, leveraging decades of experience to create impactful interventions in over 14 countries.

In summary, War Child underscores the urgent need to protect children in South Sudan as violence increases. The organization remains committed to providing essential support while advocating for the respect of children’s rights. The call for peaceful conflict resolution highlights the necessity to safeguard the futures of millions affected by ongoing turmoil, ensuring that children are not subjected to the burdens of war.

Original Source: reliefweb.int