LIBYA: Statement by SR for Children and Armed Conflict on the protection of children

Summary: Radhika Coomaraswamy condemns reports of violence against children and their use in armed conflict.

[NEW YORK, 8 March 2011] - “My Office has received unconfirmed reports from human rights groups, civilians on the ground, and the media of violations against children in Libya---including killing and maiming and use of children as combatants and the denial of humanitarian access. 

I remind the Government of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, pro-government forces, and opposition groups of their obligation under international law to protect children during armed clashes and that recruitment and use of children may constitute a war crime. 

The United Nations is closely monitoring the ongoing crisis in Libya where fighting has already taken a heavy toll on children.” 

Statement attributable to Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict Radhika Coomaraswamy.

 

Further Information

pdf: http://www.un.org/children/conflict/english/pr/2011-03-09255.html

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