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Today, February 13, 2026, marks the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the devastating impact of armed conflict on children worldwide. Amnesty International and others are highlighting the ongoing issue of child recruitment, even as global commitments to end the practice remain unfulfilled.
To commemorate the day, interviews were conducted with Ana Sánchez Moncayo of Amnesty International and Ahmed, a former child soldier who shared his personal experiences. The conversations focused on the critical issues of human rights, remembrance, and the need for restorative justice for those affected by this horrific practice.
Despite pledges from governments and sustained efforts to protect children in armed conflicts, the recruitment of children as soldiers by armed forces and armed groups continues to be a significant problem, as noted by activists. The international community had set a goal to eradicate child labor, including the use of child soldiers, by 2025, a target that now appears unlikely to be met.
The observance of the International Day against the Use of Child Soldiers – similarly known as Red Hand Day – aims to draw attention to the vulnerability of children in conflicts around the globe and the disproportionate impact war has on their lives. According to a recent report from the United Nations, violence against children in conflict zones reached alarming levels in 2023, with a 21% increase in grave violations recorded. Factors such as gender, age, ethnicity, race, and disability were identified as key determinants of vulnerability. Further discussion on the topic was featured in an interview with Sánchez Moncayo and Ahmed.
Ana Sánchez Moncayo is an activist with the Childhood Team at Amnesty International Spain, and has been a vocal advocate for the protection of children in conflict zones. Her professional background includes extensive experience in cultural event management and social intervention projects.
