Child Returnees

Abstract

The conflict in Syria and Iraq had an immense impact on children. In addition to the losses and suffering inflicted on them, children became easy targets for the many conflicting sides who used them as child soldiers. Notoriously, ISIS trained children in its Cubs of the Caliphate unit and prepared them for terrorism and violence. The chapter examines the participation of children in jihadist groups and specifically focuses on ISIS’s use of minors. It analyzes the threats associated with child combatants and suicide bombers and investigates the challenges associated with the return of children from Syria and Iraq.