War Child Warns of Rising Child Recruitment in Escalating South Sudan Conflict
War Child raises alarms about the rising threat of violence and child recruitment in South Sudan as conflict escalates. With 4.5 million children in urgent need of assistance, the organization emphasizes the importance of protecting their rights and call for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. War Child continues to provide support despite increasing insecurity.
The deteriorating situation in South Sudan presents a grave threat to the 5.4 million children and youth living in the region, according to War Child. Violence has surged primarily around Juba, Western Equatoria, and Upper Nile states, leading to significant displacements—approximately 50,000 people since February. The ongoing armed conflict raises concerns regarding the recruitment of children into armed groups, which remains a critical issue as clashes between governmental and opposition forces continue.
South Sudan has faced years of conflict and environmental hardships, leaving approximately 4.5 million children urgently in need of humanitarian assistance. Many are at risk of malnutrition, gender-based violence, and interruptions in education. War Child has expressed deep concern that escalating violence could result in increased child recruitment by armed factions in these regions.
Zerihun Yohannes, the War Child Country Director for South Sudan, highlighted that these conditions prevent children from engaging in typical activities, such as education and play, as they are forced to endure the burdens of war. He stated, “Children who should be learning in the classroom or playing with their friends are instead being stripped of their rights… As conflict rises, so too does the recruitment and use of children in war.”
War Child continues to provide critical services, including mental health support, education, child protection, and livelihood assistance, unhindered by the rising insecurity. In 2024 alone, they facilitated support for 689 children associated with armed groups, helping to reunite them with caregivers and offering psychosocial assistance. Should violence persist, War Child remains committed to supporting at-risk children and their families.
The organization urges all parties in the conflict to pursue a peaceful resolution, emphasizing the necessity to respect children’s rights and protect their futures, as many have known nothing but conflict throughout their lives. War Child advocates that children must not be drawn into violence, affirming the imperative of safeguarding their well-being and development.
In summary, the escalating violence in South Sudan poses a serious risk to millions of children, increasing the likelihood of their recruitment into armed groups. War Child emphasizes the need for immediate humanitarian assistance and protection measures. The organization remains vigilant and committed to supporting affected children while urging conflict parties to respect children’s rights and seek lasting peace.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
