Children and Armed Conflict

This course explores the impact of armed conflict on children and the international systems designed to protect and assist them. Students will examine the legal frameworks that prohibit grave violations against children, including recruitment and use by armed forces or groups, military detention, sexual violence, and attacks on schools and hospitals. The course will also address the psychological and developmental consequences of conflict exposure, such as trauma, forced displacement, and family separation. Students will engage with international humanitarian and human rights instruments, as well as the operational response mechanisms tasked with supporting affected children. Through case studies and critical analysis, students will assess the effectiveness and limitations of global responses and consider pathways for strengthening child protection during armed conflict.