Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict (‘Watchlist’)

The Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict is a global network that seeks to protect children in war zones by advocating for policies and actions that safeguard children from the impacts of armed conflict. The Watchlist was established in 2001 to address the plight of children who are caught in war, facing grave violations such as recruitment into armed forces, sexual violence, abduction, killing, and denial of humanitarian access.

Key Focus Areas of the Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict

1. Monitoring and Reporting: The Watchlist collects data on violations against children in conflict zones. This includes tracking incidents of child recruitment, attacks on schools and hospitals, and other violations of international humanitarian law. The data is gathered through field research and collaboration with local and international partners.
2. Advocacy and Policy Influence: The organization advocates at the United Nations, national governments, and with other international bodies to create strong protective measures for children. It pushes for accountability mechanisms that hold perpetrators of child rights violations accountable and encourages sanctions against violators.
3. Capacity Building and Partnerships: The Watchlist works with local organizations in conflict-affected countries to build their capacity for monitoring violations and advocating for the protection of children. These partnerships ensure that local actors can sustain the protection of children in conflict zones even after international attention may wane.
4. Collaboration with the UN Security Council: One of the Watchlist’s primary roles is to provide information to the UN Security Council’s Working Group on Children and Armed Conflict. This information feeds into the Secretary-General’s annual report on children and armed conflict, which lists state and non-state actors that are responsible for violations against children.
5. Promoting the Six Grave Violations Framework: The Watchlist advocates for ending six grave violations of children’s rights in conflict situations, which are:
   • Recruitment and use of child soldiers
   • Killing and maiming of children
   • Sexual violence against children
   • Attacks on schools and hospitals
   • Abduction of children
   • Denial of humanitarian access to children

Impact and Achievements

• Listing of Violators: One of the most significant achievements of the Watchlist is its contribution to the UN Secretary-General’s annual listing of state and non-state actors who are responsible for grave violations against children. This list often leads to increased international pressure and sanctions.
• Strengthening International Norms: Through its advocacy, the Watchlist has contributed to strengthening international norms around the protection of children in conflict zones. This includes influencing resolutions by the UN Security Council that call for stronger protections for children and accountability for violators.
• Awareness Raising: The Watchlist’s reports and campaigns have significantly raised global awareness about the plight of children in armed conflict. This awareness is critical for generating political will to address violations and improve the conditions for children in war zones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict?

The Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict is a global network that monitors, reports, and advocates for the protection of children affected by armed conflict.

2. What are the six grave violations against children in armed conflict?

The six grave violations are recruitment and use of children in armed forces, killing and maiming of children, sexual violence against children, attacks on schools and hospitals, abduction of children, and denial of humanitarian access.

3. How does the Watchlist collect information on violations?

The Watchlist collects data through field research, collaboration with local organizations, and partnerships with international bodies that are present in conflict zones.

4. What role does the UN play in the Watchlist’s work?

The Watchlist provides information to the UN Security Council and the Secretary-General, which feeds into international efforts to protect children, including the annual report on children and armed conflict.

5. How does the Watchlist influence international policy?

Through its advocacy work, the Watchlist influences the adoption of resolutions and policies at the UN and other international bodies that prioritize the protection of children in conflict zones.

6. How does the Watchlist promote accountability for violations?

The Watchlist advocates for the inclusion of violators in the UN Secretary-General’s annual report, which can lead to sanctions and other measures against perpetrators of child rights violations.

7. What partnerships does the Watchlist have with local organizations?

The Watchlist works closely with local NGOs and civil society groups in conflict-affected regions to build their capacity to monitor and report on violations and to advocate for stronger protection of children.

8. How can one support the Watchlist’s efforts?

Individuals and organizations can support the Watchlist by amplifying its campaigns, advocating for the protection of children in conflict zones, and contributing to awareness-raising efforts on child rights violations during armed conflict.

The Watchlist on Children and Armed Conflict remains an essential force in ensuring that the international community remains vigilant and responsive to the needs of children who are affected by the horrors of war.