12 February

International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers

AKA Red Hand Day, this day raises awareness about the plight of child soldiers and calls for an end to the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict. The day was established by the United Nations in 1998 to highlight the impact of armed conflict on children and to promote their rights and protection.
Child soldiers are defined as individuals under the age of 18 who are forced or coerced into participating in armed conflict, either as combatants or in support roles. The use of child soldiers is a serious violation of international humanitarian law and human rights, and has a profound impact on the physical and psychological wellbeing of children.
The International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers is an opportunity for governments, civil society organisations, and individuals around the world to come together to raise awareness call for action to protect children from being recruited or used in armed conflict. The day is marked by various events, including rallies and educational programs, that aim to mobilise public opinion and to inspire action to end the recruitment and use of child soldiers.

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