The Children and Justice During and in the Aftermath of Armed Conflict report

Achieving this will take political will, practical measures and resources,’ said Ms Huitfeldt. Humanitarian efforts must be strengthened. Parties to armed conflict must act responsibly and comply with international humanitarian law. ‘We have a shared responsibility to bring about change. The aim is to mobilise resources and increase the political and operational efforts of states, the UN, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and civil society to protect children and young people. Norway is organising the conference to focus political awareness on the effects of armed conflict on children, and children's special need for protection. Our common future is at stake,’ said Ms Huitfeldt. It has enormous immediate and long-term impacts on efforts to achieve development, peace and security. ‘The lack of adequate protection affects more than just the children themselves. The UN verified over 266 000 grave violations against children committed by parties to armed conflict between 20. The number of children living in conflict areas has doubled over the last 30 years.

Conflict has a dramatic impact on their lives and their future,’ said Ms Huitfeldt. They are deeply affected both physically and psychologically. But this is not the reality for many children growing up in conflict situations. ‘Children are entitled to special protection under international humanitarian law and are to be given priority in humanitarian action. Norway is working to mobilise the international community to make commitments to improve the protection of children affected by war and conflict. The conference is also being organised in partnership with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, and the African Union. Together with UNICEF, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Save the Children International, Norway is therefore hosting an international conference on protecting children in armed conflict in Oslo on 5–6 June 2023. Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries

Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development

The Children and Justice During and in the Aftermath of Armed Conflict report