Rabat Hosts the African DDR Conference on Child Soldiers
Rabat Hosts Unprecedented African Conference on DDR for Child Soldiers
The Kingdom of Morocco will host the African Ministerial Conference on Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) of child soldiers this Thursday in Rabat, themed “Building Sustainable Pathways for Children Affected by Armed Conflicts.” This event marks a first on the continent and represents a pivotal step in establishing a coordinated African response to the issue of child soldiers.
A Major Political Initiative for Child Protection in Africa
Organized against the backdrop of increasing armed conflicts and the growing dangers facing children, this conference aims to address emerging challenges:
the rise of transnational armed groups,
mass displacements,
cyber-recruitment,
the heightened fragility of communities.
It is intended to serve as a political impetus to strengthen African mobilization around the prevention of child recruitment and their sustainable reintegration.
Objectives: Coordination, Cooperation, and African Legal Framework
This conference aims, among other objectives, to:
create strong political momentum against the recruitment of children,
enhance regional cooperation and coordination among African states,
establish the foundations for a dedicated African legal instrument for DDR,
promote holistic reintegration approaches that include:
stimulating research, sharing expertise, and disseminating best practices.
Morocco, a Committed Actor for Peace and Child Protection
The hosting of this conference in Rabat illustrates Morocco’s ongoing commitment, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, to peace, security, and child protection in Africa.
With its experience in regional stability, capacity building, and child protection, Morocco stands out as a natural and legitimate venue for this continental gathering.
Towards a New African Era in the Fight Against Child Soldiers
The Rabat Conference aspires to open a new chapter in the fight against the recruitment of child soldiers, establishing a proactive approach. This marks a crucial advancement in building sustainable futures for children affected by armed conflicts.
