Child Soldiers | UNICEF Canada: For Every Child

Learn more about UNICEF’s work under the topic "Child Soldiers".

When I Close My Eyes: 3 Stories of Child Soldiers

For Red Hand Day/International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, three former child soldiers share how the traumatic events in ‘the bush’ kept haunting them in their dreams and how the support from family and social workers have helped them.

Two former child soldiers pose with their arms around each other.

Ten things you didn’t know about child labour

June 12 is the World Day Against Child Labour. Today, and every day, we stand for every child’s right to a childhood – working to protect children from harm, including dangerous and often illegal work. Empower yourself with knowledge and join the fight.

13 year old Ibrahim works in a mechanics shop to help support his family in Syria.

Dreaming About Peace: A New Future for a Former Child Soldier

James (name changed) was abducted by an armed group in South Sudan, to serve as a soldier, and eventually was left for dead by the same group. Reunited with his family by UNICEF, he is facing life with confidence and a dream for the future.

A former child soldier takes part in a reintegration ceremony.

Five Stories of Success from 2018

In 2018, UNICEF reached almost all corners of the globe – 190 countries to be exact – to help save children’s lives. We have chosen five stories of success to show how generous support from our donors paired with tireless work from UNICEF staff, volunteers and partners are truly making a difference, for every child.

Leaving a fighter’s life behind

Helping children formerly associated with armed groups in the Greater Kasai region resume their lives.

Child Soldier: From War to Recovery

Every child deserves the opportunity to play, laugh and learn; to explore and grow in a world that nurtures them. Tragically, UNICEF estimates that tens of thousands of boys and girls under the age of 18 are used in conflicts worldwide. We recognize February 12 as International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers - to ensure a better, safer future for every child.

Former child soldier poses for an anonymous photo.

Helping child soldiers lay down their guns for good

On the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, we're using our voice to protect the children recruited and used by armed groups as conflicts around the world become more brutal, intense and widespread.

Tags: Child Soldiers

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