War Child Warns of Rising Threats to Children Amidst South Sudanese Conflict

War Child raises alarms about the escalating violence in South Sudan, where 5.4 million children could face recruitment into armed groups. Clashes have displaced thousands, exacerbating existing humanitarian crises affecting education and safety. With ongoing programs to support affected children, War Child calls for a peaceful resolution to protect children’s rights in the region.

As violence intensifies in South Sudan, War Child expresses deep concern for the 5.4 million children and youth at heightened risk of recruitment into armed groups. Significant clashes have been reported near Juba, Western Equatoria, and Upper Nile states, resulting in the displacement of approximately 50,000 people since February, with 10,000 fleeing to Ethiopia.

Years of ongoing conflict and environmental disasters have left 4.5 million children in urgent need of humanitarian assistance, exposing them to risks such as gender-based violence and malnutrition. With escalating tensions, War Child fears this violence may prompt the recruitment of children into armed conflict.

Zerihun Yohannes, War Child’s Country Director for South Sudan, highlighted the gravity of the situation, stating that children are being deprived of their rights and coerced into the harsh realities of war. He emphasized that recruitment rates often rise with conflict, and affected children frequently endure severe psychological challenges, including post-traumatic stress disorder.

Yohannes affirmed, “No child should have to experience war, whether they are in the crosshairs of a gun, or the one holding it.” He stressed the importance of protecting children from recruitment and urged all conflicting parties to uphold their responsibilities under international law to ensure the safety of children and civilians.

War Child, in collaboration with local partners, is diligently monitoring the increasing violence. Despite the unrest, their programs encompassing mental health support, education, child protection, and peacebuilding remain operational. In 2024, the organization aided 689 children, helping to reunite them with their families and providing necessary psychosocial and cash support.

The organization calls upon all factions engaged in the conflict to pursue peaceful resolutions that prioritize the protection of children, advocating for respect for children’s rights rather than their involvement in violence.

War Child reminds us that no child has initiated a war. Currently, 478 million children around the globe exist amid armed conflicts. War Child’s mission focuses on enhancing the resilience and wellbeing of these children through comprehensive psychosocial support, child protection, and education initiatives, alongside providing urgent assistance during emergencies. Founded over 30 years ago, the organization has evolved from music workshops in Kosovo to a global leader in supporting children affected by conflict in more than 14 nations.

In conclusion, the ongoing violence in South Sudan poses a severe threat to millions of children, with increasing risks of recruitment into armed groups. War Child’s commitment to protecting children’s rights and providing essential support services is crucial in this turbulent environment. It is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize the safety and future of children, ensuring they are shielded from conflict and its devastating consequences.

Original Source: reliefweb.int