In a compelling plea on Friday, UN Special Rapporteur Siobhán Mullally called for immediate and specialized protection measures to combat the trafficking of children in conflict situations, highlighting a critical global human rights issue. During her address to the General Assembly, Mullally outlined the persistent and devastating impact of child trafficking which, she noted, is systematically used as a strategy in conflicts despite clear evidence of its prevalence.

Mullally's report reveals alarming statistics, indicating that child labor in conflict zones is three times higher than the global average. The reasons for trafficking are multifarious, ranging from forced labor and illegal adoptions to roles in active combat and even sexual exploitation. She specifically pointed to concerning trends in Ukraine and Sudan, including expedited adoptions and the recruitment of children by armed groups like the Rapid Support Forces.

The report criticizes state practices that contravene international laws designed to protect children in these dire circumstances. Instead of providing protection, some states have detained children associated with armed groups, violating the non-punishment principle which should shield them as victims rather than perpetrators.

To address these issues, Mullally proposed several crucial measures. She emphasized the need for prioritizing the recovery and reintegration of children involved with armed groups, alongside rights-based family reunification efforts. She also called for the development of child-friendly anti-trafficking strategies and robust child justice systems that include effective screening and referral mechanisms to identify and assist at-risk children promptly.

Furthermore, Mullally stressed the importance of ensuring safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to deliver timely protection and assistance. She referenced Article 78(1) of the Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which set forth specific obligations for the protection of children in armed conflicts.

This urgent call to action follows UNICEF's release of an action plan against child trafficking in July, which outlines strategic measures to protect vulnerable children, including those at risk of exploitation in armed conflict scenarios.

As global attention to this pressing issue grows, the international community faces significant pressure to implement the recommended measures and close the impunity gaps that allow such violations against children to persist in conflict zones.