(Juba) – A three day workshop aimed at promoting the protection of children during armed conflict has concluded in South Sudan, bringing together key stakeholders from the security sector, government, and civil society.
The event was led by Save the Children South Sudan and supported by Global Affairs Canada’s Peace and Stabilisation Operations Programme (PSOPs). It focused on promoting the Vancouver Principles, an international initiative to end the recruitment and use of child soldiers and to safeguard children during all stages of conflict.
The workshop engaged organised forces, including the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces (SSPDF), with a focus on building knowledge, strengthening accountability, and encouraging clear action on the ground. During the sessions, the SSPDF reaffirmed its commitment to the Vancouver Principles and shared concrete measures it has begun taking to uphold its responsibilities.
Among the actions highlighted were the establishment of court martials for personnel found to be violating child protection protocols, the creation of child protection units within the military, and orders for armed forces to vacate schools being used as military bases. These measures are intended to align military practices with international standards and protect the rights and safety of children.
A young child representative at the workshop delivered a powerful message, saying, “We belong in schools, not on battlefields. We should be holding books, not guns.”
Officials from the Ministry of Gender, Child and Social Welfare also took part in the discussions, alongside representatives from the Canadian Embassy in Juba.
The joint effort emphasised the need for increased awareness and cooperation among institutions to ensure children are not drawn into armed conflict.
The Vancouver Principles, adopted globally, are designed to guide armed forces and governments in protecting children and preventing their involvement in warfare.
South Sudan’s adoption and implementation of these principles reflect a growing commitment to international norms, despite the country’s ongoing challenges related to conflict and recovery.
Save the Children praised the collaborative effort and encouraged all actors to continue prioritising child protection as part of peacebuilding.
“Children are not soldiers. Their futures should be shaped by education and opportunity, not war.”
