Conflicts in Africa and their effect on the rights of children - a case study of Rwanda-1990 – 2004
Abstract
The growth and development of international law on the rights of children has not been
matched by practice especially in armed conflict situations. Children experiences
difficulties due to their vulnerability and also because the rights have to be enforced on
their behalf. The aim and objectives of this research project is to determine the extent to
which their rights are violated given the nature of armed conflicts in Africa and more so
in post- cold war era.
The study is going to elicit debates in academic circles given that new approaches are
vital in addressing the challenges of armed conflicts on the rights of children not only in
Africa but globally. It will contribute to the re-definition, and development of
international law principles on rights of children and the criminal responsibility for those
violating the rights. The approaches to the policy formulation and implementation of the ..
rights of children, depends on research and development to which this research will
greatly contribute.
The human rights have a historical, philosophical and conceptual framework upon which
a wide range of debates have flourished .A critical analysis of this framework with an
African perspective will show Africa's contribution to the development of international
human rights law. Armed conflicts affects the social, economic, cultural, political aspects
.•.
of life of communities upon which human rights principles flourish and develops.
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The outcome of the research indicates the need for further research in the field of armed
conflicts and the legal framework upon which the rights of children are embedded. There
a need for a concerted effort by all those involved in addressing the issues of child rights
in armed conflicts especially in the designing of policy approaches and implementation
for maximum benefits.
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However, certain shortcomings were encountered in terms of the scope of the data
collection and analysis but nonetheless the findings form a basis for further research and
theoretical developments.
Citation
Post-graduate diploma in Strategic studiesPublisher
University of Nairobi College of Humanities and Sociasl Science