Much progress has been made in the protection and care of children in armed conflict. The adoption of the Cape Town Principles (1997) on the recruitment of children established the standards for armed groups engaged in conflict. New normative measures have been taken, such as the Optional Protocols (2000) of the Convention of the Rights of the Child (1989). Globally, demobilization and reintegration programmes include special measures for children and child recruitment violations are being prosecuted in international courts and justice processes. The recent passing of Security Council Resolution 1612, which mandates the monitoring and reporting of grave violations of child rights, significantly furthered the commitment of the UN and Member States to this issue.

However, although significant progress has been made, children in situations of conflict remain highly vulnerable to being recruited by armed groups, exploited, sexually abused, injured and killed. Further, since the original release of the Machel Study, the climate of conflict has changed dramatically. Diverse forms of political and armed violence have presented new threats in the protection of children.

The 10 year Strategic Review process provides an opportunity to refresh the unique multi-stakeholder mobilization and spirit generated by the original Machel Study. The Strategic Review will reframe action on children and armed conflict in view of UN reform and changes in the global policy environment. The Review will ensure a gender-sensitive approach and will emphasize child participation, especially that of adolescents.