Children in armed conflict.

AuthorMallozi, Jennifer
PositionArt exhibition of the United Nations Artists Group

The issue of children in armed conflict is rarely, if ever, associated with creative sentiments or the acquisition of art. The United Nations Artist Group was able to bridge the two - with a November exhibit of their artwork held at the United Nations, where some of the Group members associated with the Organization, in one way or another, auctioned their works in order to raise funds for the United Nations Children's Fund programme in support of children caught up in war.

There is undoubtedly an overwhelming need for financial support on behalf of children all over the world who have endured inexcusable abuse on their minds and bodies. Many have been recruited into armed conflict when they are as young as nine years. The statistics are staggering. Within the former Yugoslavia alone, there were an estimated 20,000 rapes since 1992. In Rwanda, the numbers reached an estimated 15,700 rapes in the period 1994 to 1995. Throughout, they have experienced an array of scare tactics and initiation procedures. Children have been the victims and witnesses of rape; they have been forced to see and even participate in the executions of family members, friends and strangers alike. If they are not recruited or do not voluntarily submit, they may be left alone to fend for themselves, forced to find food and shelter, with the constant threat of violence looming over them. There are few choices offered them, for they have lost their families, friends, homes and communities to the interests of warring...

To continue reading

Request your trial

VLEX uses login cookies to provide you with a better browsing experience. If you click on 'Accept' or continue browsing this site we consider that you accept our cookie policy. ACCEPT