A delegation from the Dakhla-based International Research Centre for the Prevention of Child Soldiers is paying a working visit to N’Djamena, to promote cooperation with Chadian authorities in supporting social, economic, and professional reintegration programs for child soldiers in this country.
This visit, which is taking place on the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers (February 12), also aims to raise awareness about the prevention of the recruitment of children in armed conflicts, the Centre said in a press release.
The trip is meant to consolidate collaboration with researchers and academics as part of the activities of the International Research Centre for the Prevention of Child Soldiers.
The International Research Centre for the Prevention of Child Soldiers aims to protect against the recruitment and exploitation of children in armed conflicts by providing accurate data on the situation. It partners with UN agencies, international and regional organizations, civil societies and authorities, to develop a joint research agenda and fight against the exploitation of children in conflict zones.
According to 2023 figures, there are more than 460 million children who live in conflict zones across the world, while more than 15% of child soldiers are girls.
Several experts, executives, and academic researchers work in the international centre to monitor various violations occurring in conflict zones worldwide, deploy strategies and solutions to tackle the recruitment of children in armed conflicts.
The choice of the Moroccan city of Dakhla to host the Centre is a recognition of Morocco’s role as a provider of peace, security and stability.