An Examination Of The Law Relating To The Prosecution Of Crimes Committed By Children During Armed Confuct

In situations of Armed Conflict, states and non-state actors recruit children to participate in either side. This is in violation of international law and has been condemned worldwide. In these armed conflicts, children are not only the victims but also at times the perpetrators of heinous crimes contrary to International Humanitarian Law. This dissertation covers the causes of recruitment of children into armed conflicts. The acts that the children are involved in and the acts that are done unto them are also discussed. The law relating to child soldiers is expounded with a specific emphasis on the prosecution and rehabilitation of children. The age of criminal responsibility for international crimes is also analyzed and a conclusion is drawn. Recommendations are also given to states, policy makers, the international community and the media