Reaching all: core principles for working with children associated with armed groups and forces

Guidelines for ending child and youth involvement in armed groups and forces

Produced by: Save the Children Fund (SCF) , 2005

This report highlights that the risks of conflict impacting directly on children has greatly increased, as has the involvement of children in hostilities. Children are used in a variety of roles, for example as cooks, porters and spies, and for sexual services.

This paper outlines the critical issues for children associated with armed groups and forces. It argues that family unity and community-based approaches offer the best opportunity for durable reintegration and protection. Such approaches demand continued support during, and even long after, the end of violent conflict.