The Philippines has been removed from the United Nations’ list of grave child rights violations in armed conflict after more than two decades, signaling progress in child protection efforts.
The development was reported in the UN Secretary-General’s annual report on children and armed conflict covering 2024, which tracks verified cases of grave child rights violations and assesses country situations based on monitoring data and compliance with international standards.
In a statement, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) welcomed the development as a “milestone in the protection of children’s rights,” citing efforts to strengthen the implementation of Republic Act No. 11188, or the Special Protection of Children in Situations of Armed Conflict Act.
According to the CHR, the Philippines’ improved status was supported by institutional mechanisms such as the Inter-Agency Committee on Children in Situations of Armed Conflict, which coordinates implementation of RA 11188 across government agencies.
The commission also cited operational protocols among frontline agencies, including treating children encountered in military operations as victims, government-led care and rehabilitation, and policies promoting schools as “Zones of Peace.”
Civil society organizations have also supported child protection efforts through psychosocial services, education assistance, and advocacy.
The CHR further noted the Philippines’ participation in the UN Monitoring and Reporting Mechanism under Security Council Resolution 1612, which tracks grave violations against children in armed conflict.
Despite the delisting, the commission said protection gaps remain, citing “resource and operational constraints, limited access to specialized psychosocial and mental health services, and gaps in reintegration programs.”
“Duty-bearers must consistently recognize children in conflict situations as victims whose rights and futures must be safeguarded,” the CHR said.
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