Speaking at a meeting of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Al-Nashif noted that the consequences of wars for children include physical, mental, and social injuries, as well as developmental issues, which are exacerbated by gross violations of international humanitarian law. Armed conflicts are witnessing an increasing use of explosive devices in populated areas, forced recruitment of children, and the use of sexual violence as a military strategy.
In Sudan, at least 223 cases of violence against children were recorded in 2025; however, according to Al-Nashif, the actual number of victims is much higher.
She also emphasized that children who have fallen victim to violence deserve support and justice. Some countries have already begun to take legislative measures to assist victims and develop reintegration programs for children previously associated with armed groups. Since the early 2000s, thanks to the efforts of the UN, more than 210,000 children and adolescents have been released from armies and armed groups.
In her speech, Al-Nashif highlighted four main areas of action:
- conducting independent investigations into all cases of rights violations;
- recognizing children associated with armed groups as victims and ending their arbitrary detention;
- allocating funds for long-term rehabilitation, education, and medical assistance;
- involving children in justice processes.
Children are not just victims. They must have a voice in shaping their future.Concluding her speech, Al-Nashif stated that war represents "the ultimate form of violation of children's rights": "We are leaving children to fend for themselves instead of supporting them. This needs to change."
Photo on the main page is for illustrative purposes: nur.kz.
