Where

Where are children trapped in armed conflict?

Nigeria

While the Nigerian federal government does not employ child soldiers, the bulk of armed groups in the Niger Delta comprise youths. A few state governers also illegally endorse armed vigilantes responsible for murder, most of whom are under the age of 18. Finally, much criminal gang violence in Nigeria has been attributed to youths.

India

Due to the lack of birth registration and effective age verification in the country, children under 18 are employed in military forces. India has the second largest population in the world, with over 30% under the age of 14. Sheer confusion accounts for much of the issue.

Chad

In Chad, child soldiers are used by both state and non-state actors. From 2005 to 2010, thousands of child soldiers fought proxy wars in the Chad-Sudan conlict. Fortunately, the government signed an action plan to eliminate use of child soldiers and recruitment has decreased considerably.

Thailand

In Thailand, child soldiers are used in the armed separatist struggle for missions including intelligence gathering, diversion tactics, and arson attacks.