He said global campaigns, including “Children, Not Soldiers” and the new “Act to Protect” have helped get out the message that children should never be used in conflict, but the figures continue to rise. “Greater awareness and better monitoring do not account for this increase,” he said. “It is the result of ongoing and worsening hostilities, and a shameful disregard for civilian lives.”The secretary-general urged all countries to take “concrete actions” to make the protection of children affected by conflict a priority. The Security Council approved a presidential statement launching new guidance for mediators that aims to ensure that children’s needs and rights are considered during all phases of conflict — from prevention to mediation, peace negotiations and post-conflict recovery. The briefing was organized by Belgium, which holds the council presidency this month.

Source: International New York Times February 13, 2020 03:33 UTC