Thank you, Madam President. Special Representative Virginia Gamba and Director Sheema Sen Gupta provided briefings during a recent UN Security Council open debate on children and armed conflict. Sila also shared her words.
The 2024 annual CAAC report reveals the impact of armed conflict on children, with the highest number of violations reported since the monitoring and reporting mechanism was established. This includes an increase in cases of sexual violence. The situation highlights the need to strengthen child protection capacities globally and for parties in conflict to respect international obligations.
Haiti is among countries with significant violations against children due to escalating gang violence, particularly by the Viv Ansanm coalition. "We continue to condemn Viv Ansanm’s actions," said a representative, noting their inclusion in the Secretary-General’s report annex. In May 2025, the United States designated Viv Ansanm as a Foreign Terrorist Organization and plans to nominate them in the UN Haiti Sanctions regime.
In Sudan, instability threatens children's safety despite extended sanctions earlier this year. Further steps are needed to resolve humanitarian aid restrictions and human rights violations.
Colleagues highlighted issues faced by children in Gaza. It was noted that Israel has measures to limit civilian harm while defending itself against Hamas' actions. On October 7, 2023, Hamas massacred 1,200 people including children Ariel and Kfir Bibas. "This terrorist organization continues to use civilians...as human shields," stated a representative.
In Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russian forces, many children face injury or death from explosive weapons. Calls were made for negotiations to end the war and safeguard humanitarian access.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) sees mounting violence affecting children as well. Efforts from DRC and Rwandan governments are urged to reduce child recruitment and abduction.
Bright spots include commendations for Somalia's National Army and Police Force for improvements in child protection as well as Iraq, Pakistan, and Philippines' delisting from reports after taking action plans with SRSG’s office seriously.
"Children around the world deserve...to have a future," concluded representatives urging collective efforts toward protecting them amidst conflicts worldwide.