Essential learning tool addresses the protection of children affected by armed conflicts

This month, the United Nations System Staff College (UNSSC) is launching a comprehensive educational offering, the Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) Primer. This initiative was developed in partnership with the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict (OSRSG-CAAC) , with the financial support of the Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade of Malta.  

This online course will be a critical tool in the ongoing efforts to better address the protection of children affected by armed conflicts around the world. Its joint inception is rooted in the need to address the six grave violations committed against children annually, namely recruitment and use, killing and maiming, abduction, sexual violence, attacks on schools and hospitals, and denial of humanitarian access.  

Inspiration was drawn from the seminal 1996 report by Graça Machel, which played a central role in the establishment of the mandate of the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly (Resolution A/RES/51/77), as well as Security Council Resolution 1261 (1999) and subsequent resolutions which firmly placed the situation of children affected by armed conflict on the Council's agenda. 

“The Children and Armed Conflict Primer stands as a testament to the Staff College's unwavering commitment to innovative learning initiatives,” said Jafar Javan, UNSSC Director.  “At the forefront of learning endeavors, UNSSC can play a pivotal role in raising awareness and imparting knowledge that addresses challenges faced in sensitive contexts.” 

The CAAC Primer offers a meticulously structured curriculum that builds on international human rights law, humanitarian law, and other child protection standards. Emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach in the implementation of the CAAC agenda, the Primer is open to all but especially targets a diverse range of professionals, including UN staff members, government civil servants, not-for-profit organizations, civil society organizations, and academia.   

Virginia Gamba, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict says, “Together, let us strive to end and prevent grave violations against children. We all have a role to play. Join us to build a future where the rights and well-being of every child are safeguarded.”  

The course is now available for free. Interested individuals are encouraged to join. For more information , please visit here.