The Detention of Children in the Context of Armed Conflict

Abstract

In recent years, governments have increasingly detained children for suspected association with non-state armed groups, particularly in conflicts involving violent extremist groups. Between 2012 and 2017, the United Nations recorded a five-fold increase in the detention of children in armed conflict.1 At any given time, thousands of children are imprisoned for suspected association with armed groups, often without charge and in inhuman and degrading conditions.