 UNMIN child protection advisers aim to make sure that Nepal's peace process works for children, and at least that children at risk do not suffer reverses as a result of a peace that is unjust or insufficiently inclusive. This mandate is carried out by monitoring, investigation and reporting, making mission staff aware of children's needs in peace processes, and using ceasefire monitoring mechanisms (such as the Joint Monitoring Coordination Committee) to address accountability for violations of children's rights.
UNMIN's mandate is focused on providing technical support for the Constituent Assembly (CA) election; and monitoring the management of arms and armies including chairing the JMCC. This means that UNMIN's Child Protection Section:
- monitors two broad areas: release and reintegration of children associated with armed groups, and young people's political participation.
- speaks to children and families, NGOs working with children, schools and other state or party institutions working with children, local political and military leaders and others in order to understand the risks that children face in the peace process.
- uses the information it gathers to propose ways in which the mission, government and parties can act to reduce risks to children.
- will suspend this workplan and dedicate resources to supporting formal release of children from cantonments, when that happens.
- may investigate specific abuses of children covered by the Agreement on Monitoring the Management of Arms and Armies (AMMAA). AMMAA lists prohibited activities that include recruitment of children, gender-based violence and abduction.
- liaises between UNMIN and international and national agencies with a responsibility
- regional teams produce weekly reports which will be the basis of fortnightly national reports.
Factsheet on children and politics (pdf)
Report of the Secretary-General on children and armed conflict in Nepal
Information on children associated with armed forces and groups
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