Law of Child Soldiering: Myanmar and Sri Lanka

Batra, Mahima

Item

Law of Child Soldiering: Myanmar and Sri Lanka

Batra, Mahima

Abstract

Child soldiering is not a new phenomenon, but the legality of it was not considered until very recently. Child soldiers are used by many state actors globally, although there is a push to discourage that, under the ‘Straight 18’ approach, pushed by international actors. The use and recruitment of minors is illegal. The use of child soldiers has been prolific in Myanmar and Sri Lanka, whether currently or in the past. To this end, this essay aims to answer the question: to what extent does international law effectively address the problem of recruitment and use of child soldiers in armed conflict in Myanmar and Sri Lanka? This was undertaken exclusively through secondary sources, including reports from human rights organizations, and texts from international law scholars. The legal norms are well established and clear, and that presents a fair understanding of the approach to be taken in the legal community.