Child soldiering in somalia in the context of terrorism

Abstract

Though an evolving global phenomenon, child soldiering is predominantly widespread in Africa, particularly in Somalia, where there has been systematic recruitment of children for decades. Due to state collapse followed by prolonged conflict and the lack of a functioning state, thousands of Somali children have been recruited and used by both state and non-state armed actors. As a result, Somalia has consistently been classed as one of the most persistent violators of children in armed conflict situations. This chapter discusses the scope, scale, and intensity of child soldiering in Somalia in the context of terrorism. It argues that besides being a human rights challenge, child soldiering is a severe threat to Somalia's peace and security agenda. Furthermore, this chapter discusses efforts and challenges in eradicating child soldiering in Somalia. Given the limited progress that has been made in ending the practice, this chapter recommends, as a way forward, the effective implementation of a comprehensive strategy that addresses its underlining root causes.