Conflicts in Africa and their effect on the rights of children - a case study of Rwanda-1990 TO 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. tf 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. Vll 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.