We live in very difficult times for children around the world. In his 2024 Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict, covering 2023, the UN Secretary-General noted that there was a “shocking” 21% increase in grave violations when compared to 2022, adding that the number of instances of killing and maiming increased by 35%. Leading child protection organizations have documented that 468 million children live in countries affected by armed conflict. In 2023 alone, the UN verified over 30,000 grave violations against children. There has never been the same level of witness to violations committed against children in war. This dire reality raises significant concerns about what the best strategies are to increase the parties’ compliance and restraint in war and improve the situation of children and their access to essential services.
In a period marked by an alarming rise in violations of international law by States and non-State armed groups, Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict has remained steadfast in its efforts to advance the UN’s Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) agenda. As a leading voice in this arena, Watchlist’s work has helped policymakers and other key stakeholders in their efforts to better protect children in war. This report demonstrates the importance of this work, and how critical this effort is. In 2023, Watchlist was able to provide timely information on the situation of children in Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including in Gaza and the West Bank, and in Ukraine.
It also published a policy brief on abduction and deportation of children in armed conflict. The steps undertaken by Watchlist in 2023 were only possible because of the commitment of its team, of Watchlist’s network of human rights and humanitarian organizations, and the support of its partners and allies.
As this report shows, Watchlist’s efforts are crucial to safeguard children’s rights, uphold the integrity of the CAAC agenda and bring about lasting policy changes to protect children trapped in conflicts. On behalf of Watchlist and its members, we express our gratitude to our partners and donors for their unwavering support in promoting and achieving these goals. As you read and explore this report and Watchlist’s activities and achievements, we hope you will continue to support its mission. We also hope that next year will be better for children’s rights.
Read more in Watchlist’s 2023 Annual Report.
