A record surge in violations against children was documented in 2025, according to the United Nations’ annual Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) report. The report detailed six main violations: killing and maiming, recruitment and use of children, abduction, rape and other forms of sexual violence, attacks on schools and hospitals, and denial of humanitarian access. In 2025, 38,558 grave violations were verified, affecting 24,174 children, many of whom experienced multiple violations. One-third of the victims were girls. These figures represent the highest number of children affected since the UN’s CAAC mandate was established 30 years ago.
Government forces were identified as the primary perpetrators of grave violations, particularly in killing and maiming, and attacks on schools and hospitals, as well as denial of humanitarian access. This alarming shift occurred amidst escalating conflicts, the widespread use of explosive weapons in populated areas, and increased integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in targeting processes. UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict, Virginia Gamba, stated, “It has undoubtedly been one of the darkest chapters for the protection of children since monitoring began.” Gamba added, “The fact that States, who have the obligation to protect children, are instead contributing to their suffering, shows a further erosion of respect for international law.”
Regions with the highest violation levels included the Occupied Palestinian Territories and Israel, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Myanmar, and Somalia. Where possible, violations were attributed to parties listed in the report’s annexes. Killing and maiming accounted for 6,266 children killed and 7,958 maimed, reaching “alarming levels” with respective increases of 34% and 10%. The report noted, “In many instances, military strategies have disregarded the principles of distinction and proportionality, the special protection afforded to children, and the obligation to take all feasible precautions, exposing children to foreseeable and avoidable dangers.”
Denial of humanitarian access ranked second with 8,322 cases, while 6,607 children were recruited as soldiers in conflicts. Additionally, 5,129 children were abducted, often targeted for recruitment, use, or sexual violence. Rape and other forms of sexual violence persisted, with confirmed cases of mass rape used as a tactic of war on the rise. Children also remained vulnerable to mines and explosive remnants of war, leading to lifelong disabilities, trauma, and difficulties accessing education even after conflicts ended.
Last year, 1,667 children were detained for alleged or actual links to parties to conflict. Gamba emphasized that these children should be treated as victims and detention should be a measure of last resort, highlighting the essential role of reintegration programs for peace. “Reintegration is where a child’s future—and our future as humanity—is rebuilt,” Gamba stated, urging the international community to increase political and financial support for children released from armed forces and groups, including those with disabilities. She also called on all parties to allow for the safe, swift, and unimpeded provision of humanitarian assistance.
While the CAAC mandate marks its 30th year, significant progress was also achieved, though the situation for children sharply deteriorated in some areas last year. For instance, 13,112 children received protection or reintegration support, up from previous associations with armed forces or groups. Commitments were obtained from parties and various initiatives were launched in places like Somalia, Ukraine, and Colombia. Gamba underscored this milestone, stating, “Words are not enough; sustained and determined action is required.” She concluded, “Protecting children is not a goal, it is an obligation.”
