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Why do rebel groups use child soldiers in Africa?
Reasons for recruitment by armed groups Child soldiers are typically recruited because they are seen by armed groups as expendable and cheap to maintain.
What are the causes of child soldiers in Africa?
In short, there are two primary ways children can become child soldiers:
- they are abducted, or conscripted through coercion or severe threats; or.
- they are born into forces or groups.
Why are they fighting in Central African Republic?
The current conflict arose when a new coalition of varied rebel groups, known as Séléka, accused the government of failing to abide by the peace agreements, captured many towns in 2012 and seized the capital in 2013.
What is the impact of child soldiers in Africa?
The few studies that exist of the impact of combat on abductees are interview-based or medical in nature. They conclude that psychological trauma and social dislocation are the major consequences of child soldiering. But these studies seldom address impacts other than social/psychological and are often anectotal.
What is being done about child soldiers in Africa?
Groups like Amnesty International and the UN are working to end the use of child soldiers in wars. They give the kids an education and counselling to try and help them return to civilian life. …
Why are child soldiers forced to fight?
Some children are forced to take part in atrocities against their own families and neighbors to stigmatize them and ensure that they are unable to return to their communities. Many child soldiers are compelled to follow these orders under threat of severe punishment or death.
What are the effects of being a child soldier?
The children are encouraged to participate in psychosocial support, such as group activities with other boys or girls who have been in armed groups. They can share experiences and develop life-skills, such as conflict resolution, positive decision-making and planning for a positive future.
Why is there so much civil war in Africa?
Africa has a high prevalence of civil wars and this is commonly attributed to the ethnic diversity of its countries. This inference seems self-evident to many, given that African rebel movements almost always are ethnically defined. Ethnic identities and hatred are thus seen as the cause of violent conflict.
Why are child soldiers effective?
Many children are forced to join military groups at a young age. Child soldiers are also easier to manipulate and force into conflict. Recruiters typically target children from troubled areas or conflict zones, likely accustomed to violence and with fewer educational or work opportunities.