UN reports over 3,000 child rights violations in Syria, urges protection
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – A new report by the Office of the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict revealed on Tuesday that from Oct. 1, 2022, to Dec. 31, 2024, the United Nations verified 3,343 grave violations against 3,209 children across Syria.
According to the report, the most common violations involved recruitment and use of children in hostilities, as well as killing and maiming.
At least 32 parties were implicated, including former Syrian government forces and allied militias, Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), and the Syrian National Army (SNA).
UN Special Representative Vanessa Frazier said that while the situation for children in Syria remains dire, “credible progress” has been observed since December 2024.
She highlighted growing cooperation with Syria’s transitional authorities, noting that “the positive engagement gives a much-needed sense of hope for the children of Syria.”
Frazier expressed deep concern over the continued detention of approximately 25,500 children in Hawl and Roj camps in northeast Syria due to alleged links to ISIS, urging all countries to facilitate their safe and voluntary repatriation in line with international law.
She called on all armed groups to release children from their ranks and ensure their reintegration into civilian life through age- and gender-sensitive programs.
Frazier also commended the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) for progress in implementing their action plan to protect children, urging other parties to follow suit.
“The rights and well-being of children must be respected—in times of peace and in times of war,” she concluded.