Child Recruitment and Militarization in MENA and West Africa (Part 1)

By Elisabeth Lucetta

A boy poses with a Kalashnikov assault rifle during a gathering of newly-recruited Houthi fighters in the Yemeni capital of Sanaa on 16 July 16, 2017 (AFP/Getty Images)

Summary:

Armed conflicts across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and West African regions have exposed millions of CAAFAG to violence, displacement, and prolonged social instability. In many conflict-affected communities, CAAFAG becomes involved with armed groups through coercion, economic hardship, ideological influence, or simply because few alternatives remain available to them. As conflict becomes embedded in everyday life, involvement with armed groups can become normalized, drawing children out of civilian life and into military and supporting roles.

Part 1 examines the militarization of CAAFAG, exploring the circumstances surrounding their recruitment, the influence of gender, and the effects of conflict during and after their involvement with armed groups. It also considers the challenges CAAFAG face when attempting to leave these environments.

Full Report:

Youth Militarization and Children Associated with Armed Forces and Armed Groups (CAAFAG) R.

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