Children are being exploited
The recruitment and use of child soldiers steals the future of children. It is one of the most serious violations of children's rights.
Tens of thousands of girls and boys are currently used as child soldiers by armed groups around the world - as spies, messengers, in armed combat, or as ‘wives’ of fighters. The horrors of armed conflict leave long-lasting physical and psychological effects such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and severe personality changes, particularly when children have also been given drugs.
World Vision works to prevent children from being recruited into armed groups by strengthening child protection systems, promoting peacebuilding and increasing access to education and work opportunities for entire communities.
With your support, we work with governments, civil society groups, other NGOs and community-based organisations, using our expertise and experience to better protect children.