Mozambique High Court: No Protection from Armed Groups' Child Recruitment

• Over 400 minors were recruited by armed groups in Cabo Delgado in 2024.
• 71 girls were among those recruited, while others were abducted.
• Mozambique is among the five countries experiencing the sharpest rise in grave violations against children.
• The humanitarian crisis in Cabo Delgado has resulted in over 715,000 people returning to their areas of origin, although many remain dependent on humanitarian aid.

The humanitarian crisis in northern Mozambique's Cabo Delgado province has reached alarming levels, with over 400 minors recruited by armed groups in 2024. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Health Cluster, 71 girls were among those recruited, while others were abducted. The report highlights the devastating impact of the conflict on children, including abductions, recruitment by non-state armed groups, and grave violations against them. These abuses not only rob children of their safety and dignity but also leave deep psychological trauma.

Mozambique is among the five countries experiencing the sharpest rise in grave violations against children, with incidents increasing by 525 percent in 2024. The report warns that nearly nine years after the onset of the armed insurgency in Cabo Delgado, led by groups linked to the Islamic State, humanitarian needs remain high. The international community is urged to take immediate action to address the crisis and protect vulnerable populations, including women and children.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Cabo Delgado has significant implications for lawyers and compliance officers working with clients or investing in the region. The recruitment of minors by armed groups raises concerns about child protection and human rights, while the destruction of health facilities and suspension of operations highlight the need for urgent humanitarian assistance. Compliance officers should be aware of these developments and monitor them closely to ensure that their clients' operations do not contribute to the crisis.

Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique, which may impact their clients' operations or investments in the region. They should also monitor developments related to the recruitment of minors by armed groups and potential implications for child protection and human rights.

Source: Original reporting via AllAfrica Mozambique